The Gender Equity Program is closely integrated into Heifer-Ukraine's active projects. The practical application of gender principles means that interests and experiences of both men and women are taken into account during project planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. This is needed to ensure that both men and women receive equal benefits from project activities.

In 2010 gender analyses were included into nine active projects. Analytical reports on each project were prepared on the basis of these analyses. Recommendations address the strategy of full participation, sustainable development and self-sufficiency of rural communities, including the needs and interests of men and women. The regional gender seminar based on the results of gender analysis, which involved representatives of the families of project leaders, Heifer-Ukraine - Lviv regional office - staff, representatives of the Ministry for Family and Youth, and Parliament Development Project representatives, was conducted on September 25-27th, 2009 within the framework of project # 27-0840-21. The issues of community access to lawmaking process, including gender aspects, were also reviewed during the seminar. Participants of the seminar mentioned that the education and experience they received during the seminars helped them

identify their roles and current situation in the family and in the community. They started to think about the future and make decisions. Women remark on the positive changes to their diet, benefits from selling piglets and calves. The basic research helped understand the extent to which the project framework is consistent with the needs of the local people. Active participation of project participants in AS coop activities positively affects cultural, gender and social aspects of rural community life.

An important outcome of the gender program in 2010 was the preparation of a gender manual Equal rights and opportunities for men and women. The manual also included recommendations on how to conduct gender analyses and

gender trainings. It will be useful to office staff, project leaders, as well as recommended reading for consultants and experts. The gender program consistently tackles the issues of women leadership.