This publication represents one of UNESCAP’s efforts at developing a set of indicators with which to assess the degree of implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action. The set of indicators is also developed on the basis of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as well as the Jakarta Declaration and Plan of Action for the Advancement of Women in Asian and the Pacific. The ever-growing need to develop systems of gender statistics and indicators has underscored the importance in selecting indicators that are appropriate for the intended purpose as well as technically sound. In developing these indicators, the criteria of selection depended on their usefulness to the countries in Asia Pacific region and the current availability of information and official statistics. The publication is also mindful that that the countries will actually decide the priorities on the basis of their own follow-up and assessment needs.