ABSTRACT
In the previous chapter women’s strategies for equality were discussed using the metaphor of a triangle of empowerment. In order to contextualize the case studies which follow, this chapter focuses on the global institutional framework which the three actors in the triangle have helped create and which forms the setting from which they operate. A significant part of this worldwide institutional structure consists of the United Nations and UN-related organizations and institutions. The UN, which evaluates and monitors progress worldwide on the advancement of women, has repeatedly emphasized the lack of progress in the domain of political power.
