Good quality gender-disaggregated data are required in all areas of public policy, along with a framew'ork and structures for collecting data, linkages with a gender equality vision and strategy, and the capacity to undertake research and analysis w ithin the government and outside. These tools and practices generally encompass the collection of gender statistics and the development of gender-sensitive indicators, as well as gender impact assessments, including gender-responsive budgeting. Such data is the basis of gender mainstreaming and efforts to monitor, measure and evaluate gender equality initiatives and their impact.