Gender equality in Africa has improved, but significant inequalities and discriminations persist. AU Watch works to strengthen gender-equality institutions, identify unequal and discriminatory laws and policies, and increase women’s participation in politics and electoral processes. Through advocacy, education, campaigns and gender equality training for parliamentarians, civil society and security sector personnel, and by encouraging women’s recruitment and promotion within the national and regional institutions, AU Watch supports effective institutions, policies and programmes that reflect the needs and interests of both girls and women.