Evident in both the executive and judicial branches of our government, such increases are sorely lacking in the legislative branch at every level of government. Neither government bodies nor political parties have made effective efforts to introduce election reforms, statutory measures or party rules such as public financing of campaigns or numerical targets that have been effective in more than 34 countries around the world. Council has effectively promoted and monitored women's initiatives across departments and agencies. But no statutory basis exists for the Council's continuation after the 2000 Presidential election. Nor has the Council adequately emphasized integrating a gender perspective in legislation, public policy, programs, and budgets.
Government supports some programs for women's ownership and licensing of media outlets.
Despite appointment of the first female EPA director, neither the Administration nor Congress has effectively pursued sustainable development policies. The Federal Interagency Working Group on Women's Health and the Environment could coordinate such efforts. Whether there are sufficient numbers of women employed in agencies responsible for environmental policy is unknown because that data is not available. Although women and girls are disproportionately affected by environmental hazards, studies on pesticides, toxins, and genetically engineered or irradiated food products have not reported gender-disaggregated data, and their impact on the female life cycle. Environmental racism continues to require policy development and implementation.