Providing an in-depth look at the lives of women and girls in approximately 150 countries, this multivolume reference set offers readers transnational and postcolonial analysis of the many issues that are critical to the success of women and girls.

For millennia, women around the world have shouldered the responsibility of caring for their families. But in recent decades, women have emerged as a major part of the global workforce, balancing careers and family life. How did this change happen? And how are societies in developing countries responding and adapting to women's newer roles in society? This four-volume encyclopedia examines the lives of women around the world, with coverage that includes the education of girls and teens; the key roles women play in their families, careers, religions, and cultures; how issues for women intersect with colonialism, transnationalism, feminism, and established norms of power and control.

Organized geographically, each volume presents detailed entries about the lives of women in particular countries. Additionally, each volume offers sidebars that spotlight topics related to women and girls in specific regions or focus on individual women's lives and contributions. Primary source documents include sections of countries' constitutions that are relevant to women and girls, United Nations resolutions and national resolutions regarding women and girls, and religious statements and proclamations about women and girls. The organization of the set enables readers to take an in-depth look at individual countries as well as to make comparisons across countries.

Susan M. Shaw, PhD, is professor of women, gender, and sexuality studies at Oregon State University.

Nancy Staton Barbour, MAIS, is an instructor in women, gender, and sexuality studies at Oregon State University.

Patti Duncan, PhD, is associate professor of women, gender, and sexuality studies at Oregon State University and editor of Feminist Formations.

Kryn Freehling-Burton is a senior instructor in women, gender, and sexuality studies at Oregon State University.

Jane Nichols, MLIS, is associate professor and head of the Teaching and Engagement Department in the Valley Library at Oregon State University.