The most important reason, which allows to discuss the 27 countries jointly, is its common experience of the economic and political transition following the collapse of communism. Characteristic features of the communist rule included: centrally planned economy with the vast majority of employment in the public sector, very low rates of unemployment and social services delivered by the state. The latter included health care, which was delivered through the state health care system. Furthermore, there was an extensive system of child-care support, including long paid maternity leaves, family allowances and a state support for nurseries and kindergartens. Along with it went the high rates of employment among women. In theory - in the sphere of declarations - laws of the communist countries declared the full spectrum of rights and freedoms, including the right to equality of women and men. However, the practical reality was far from these declarations. Health care services, although accessible, remained of poor quality and there was not an adequate attention given to preventive care and promotion of healthy life styles. Despite declarations of equality, the state has failed to ensure gender equality in practice. Women were facing many barriers and did not have equal with men work opportunities: few women reached higher level of management. The gender gap in wages as well as job segregation was pervasive. In addition, women still performed the majority of household chores, thus, bearing the so-called “double burden” of the paid job and unpaid work at home.

The collapse of the communist rule was followed by the democratisation of political life and transition to market economy. Countries had to deal with difficult economic situation and radically cut all state spending, including funding for the health care system. The majority of the countries reformed their health care system and privatised many services. The state no longer covers the full range of health services and thus, access to services has drastically decreased. Many state enterprises were shut and unemployment rates increased hugely. It is estimated that there is about 10 millions unemployed in CEE, in this 6 millions constitute women.² The transition has also brought a drastic deterioration of the quality of life of a significant part of the population, bringing increased poverty and growing ill health. The transition countries encounter the problem of a growing disparity in the standard of living in the society – among different geographical regions, between countries, between groups of population.

In this context, the situation of women in the region is very difficult. Unemployment rate is usually higher among women than men. State has reduced funding for child-care support. Many employers are reluctant to hire women because of their reproductive capacity. The gender gap in wages and the segregation of jobs has widened. The participation of women in decision-making is very low. In most countries of the region women constitute less than 10 % of members of Parliament and hold a similar percentage of government positions.³ The countries declare equality of men and women in their laws; however, in the daily reality women are treated unequally in the workplace, in the community and in a family. The governments do not show adequate commitment for bringing a change in this area.