Why are there so few women in French politics? Women and Politics in France 1958 - 2000 is an essential guide to the role of women in the political life of France under the Fifth Republic. The unique political history of France ensures that it remains an important and exceptional example of women's participation in the politics of a Western European country, and its study is essential in order to have a complete understanding of women and politics today. A new surge of interest in women and the French political arena was created by the campaign for parity in 1992 which produced constitutional reform and record numbers of women deputies and ministers. Women and Politics in France 1958 - 2000 is the first English language study to capture this new enthusiasm, providing useful, new research on women's political participation and covering the latest historical debates. This book includes discussion on: * women's participation in traditional organisations including governments, representative assemblies and political parties * women's participation in non-traditional organisations including new social and feminist movements * definitions of broader political participation and the theoretical and strategic consequences of such attempts to redefine it * attempts to increase the number of women in political institutions, including the campaign for parity and the debates which this has triggered. Women and Politics in France 1958-2000 is essential reading for anyone interested in the role of women in European politics.