ABSTRACT
This chapter reflects on the possible answers to the questions that the authors posed to other authors and also attempts to arrive at some practical suggestions both for researchers and policy makers or activists. The legal developments have followed different paths, depending on the history and geopolitical location of the country. In many countries, the challenge is a lack of institutions that would have the right to enforce gender equality (GE) laws and the burden of litigation is placed on people who have suffered discrimination and who are often ill-informed about GE legislation. Cultural norms have been the greatest deterrent of progress of GE. Cultural norms are rooted in the history, religious background and demographic situations of the countries. Widespread misinterpretations of religious principles reduce gender justice in Egypt. The inclusion of Islamic law in the Egyptian constitution creates persistent tensions with GE initiatives.
