Published in 1998, this report documents the proceedings of the South Asia Regional Workshop held in Bangalore, India. Marking the launch of DAWN’s research theme on Political Restructuring and Social Transformation (PRST), the publication includes contributions from feminist scholars, including research coordinators Gita Sen and Viviene Taylor. The document examines the relationship between changing global governance, macroeconomic policies, and women’s experiences in the Global South, and discusses feminist critiques of “malestream” approaches to governance and development.

The report explores the changing role of the state and its capacity to support gender justice in the context of neoliberal economic reforms. Contributors discuss the implications of structural adjustment and trade liberalisation for women and other marginalised groups, as well as the relationship between these economic changes, the rise of regional religious fundamentalisms, and the practice of women’s citizenship. The publication also addresses questions of state accountability, democracy, and social transformation, including debates linked to preparations for the World Summit for Social Development review (Copenhagen +5).