A compilation of 10 articles presents perspectives on the issue of female political participation. "The Patriarchy Takes a Ribbing" (Benoite Groult) looks at women as the primary agents for economic and political change. "Women and Political Power in Europe" (Mariette Sineau) considers variations in female responsibility and status in policy-making bodies. "Running the Country?--the Role of Rural Women" (Anna Mangrioti) focuses on the impact of rural traditions and attitudes in limiting female participation in rural political life. "Sexual Violence and the Law in Italy" (Guido Modona) looks at proposals for reform of Italian laws regarding sexual violence in criminal law. "Sex Discrimination in the United Kingdom" (David Pannick) examines a recent case heard by the European Court of Human Rights concerning sex discrimination in United Kingdom immigration rules. "Unions and the Working Woman" (Hortense Horburger) outlines the difficulties involved in organizing working women. "To Denounce without Distorting" (Zoulika Boukortt) recounts the experiences in a young Algerian woman's life in two cultures. "Resolving Sexual Harassment in Canada" (Shelagh M'Gonigle) looks at Canada's growing recognition of sexual harassment as a legal problem. "A Woman's Life in Switzerland" (Gabrielle Nanchen) considers whether the recent election of a female representative to the Federal Council constitutes a real step forward for women in that country. "Violence Against Women: A Scandinavian Perspective" (Annika Snare) describes how public attitudes towards violence against women have changed in the past decade. (LP)