Equal human rights o Equal rights for both men and women have been established by law. Gender equality has been confirmed by Article 12(2) of 1978 Constitution of Sri Lanka. If equality is to be achieved, gender disparities should be addressed in the legislature, the executive and the judiciary. Winning sustainable development o Every society in the world consists of both men and women. If the needs of one party are neglected in development, only a half of the population would reap the benefits of development. It is not beneficial to the development of a country. o A sustainable development could be achieved only if both men and women contribute to development. o In some countries because gender mainstreaming has been effectively used in formulation and implementation of policies at national, regional as well as village levels, development objectives have been effectively achieved. Winning gender democracy o Gender mainstreaming can be incorporated into all activities not only in the State and government but also in the private sector, the non government sector, political parties, trade unions and other organizations. For example if gender sensitivity is applied in all activities in a political party, such as the formulation if its structure, selection of persons to its posts, formulation of party constitution and policies, giving nominations and the allocation of resources, a true internal democracy can achieved within that party. Eg. The Social Democratic party of Germany introduced gender mainstreaming into that Party in November, 2001. Enhancing the status of women o Men have made the highest representation at all decision making levels for generations. A majority of men have been entitled to higher posts, more property and more power. As a result problems such as not paying due attention to the needs and wishes of women, Sidelining women at decision making levels, not providing enough opportunities for them to provide their capabilities, skills and experiences to the development process have emerged. The overall outcome of this is the fact that women have undergone more suffering, violence and more poverty. This situation can be changed by providing equal opportunities, rights and resources to women as is provided to men Obtaining and for Development Projects o Today it has been a general matter to expect aid from the developed countries for various development projects carried out in developing countries. When development projects are examined for providing aid more attention is paid to the fact whether gender needs and relationships considered in them. o If any project has become sensitive to gender from its planning level up to the evaluation level, it will especially be an additional qualification to obtain foreign aid. 66