This article is based on publications developed in relation to the work of five Central American feminist organizations from 2001 to 2005 through the project 'BuildingWomen's Citizenship and Governance', supported by the UK NGO 'OneWorld Action'. Information and opinions drawn from those publications has been updated through personal communications with three key actors in the project: Morena Herrera, an independent consultant from El Salvador and ex director of Las Dignas; Mirta Kennedy of the Honduran NGO, CEM-H; and Geni Gomez of Grupo Venancia from Nicaragua. The original publications are available from One World Action's web site: www.oneworldaction.org

Abstract

Michael Clulow presents four feminist non-governmental organizations that have played a leading role in democratizing local activities to include the participation of women. Las Dignas and Las Mélidas from El Salvador, CEM-H from Honduras and Grupo Venancia from Nicaragua individually and collectively have successfully developed many tools and approaches to promote women's participation. He suggests at the heart of all their work, and the key to their successes are the building of strong participatory organizations and the empowerment and training of women.