ABSTRACT
This chapter embeds the effects of information networks in the socio-political institutions underlying them. The variable effects of information technology networks on identity, agenda-setting and collective action are themselves related to the variation in information technology networks themselves. The chapter describes the sources of these variations by explaining difficulties surrounding network diffusion, types of network usage, and the various types of networked organizations. Working toward ending violence toward women or introducing effective governance at the grassroots level can only help to deepen civil society. The chapter also describes Indian women's movements and the historical context in which they have arisen. It focuses on non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working on gender issues in India in the context of globalization. NGOs may or may not welcome being subsumed under global identities or adapt easily to global agendas and advocacy. Instead of being seamless and democratic, networks might be multilayered, overlapping and hierarchical.
