Fair representation of men and women in the legislative and executive bodies of governance both on national and local level is key to sensitive and efficient policy-making in any sphere of life. Ten years of social and political transformation has resulted in the consolidation of some form of democracy in most post-socialist countries. New institutions, however, have not become open enough to equally include men and women in the political decision-making processes. The percentage of women in senior positions of central governance and legislation has radically decreased and women are often reluctant to run for office.

Scholars, professionals, politicians, and activist have tried to address the unfair representation of women in senior political positions in different ways. In most countries of the region, there is a growing concern with the lack of success to achieve breakthrough in the actual political arenas. There are heated debates in particular on the use and abuse of quota system as a potential tool for more equal representation of women. Some movements have achieved temporary or enduring results by turning to specific strategies, whether or not supporting the concept of quota.  The lectures and presentations of the conference were published online in English and Hungarian in January 2001 (See at Gender-related academic studies, papers in the menu). A book version is also available in Hungarian only. Please inquireby e-mail for free copies.