LEGAL RIGHTS FOR RURAL WOMEN

Evaluation covers the period from 5/1/79 to 4/30/80 and is based on interviews with project personnel and a review of project files. A new logical framework was prepared to clarify project design and serve as the basis of this evaluation. The Paraguayan League for the Rights of Women (LIGA), a private voluntary organization, is the implementing agency. LIGA met most project outputs: it implemented all six information programs; established a legal advisory service; recruited voluntary personnel whose performance exceeded expectations; and developed initial and follow-up courses for 57 local leaders, exceeding the original target of 30. LIGA prepared and distributed printed materials and also consolidated project activities in four branch offices; other LIGA branches were inactive or being reorganized. Only 50 of the 70 planned radio broadcasts were prepared, however, due to an unanticipated need to translate them into Guarani. LIGA"s inability to contract a capable and stable staff also postponed the project"s beginning for four months. Source and origin requirements delayed LIGA"s procurement of audiovisual equipment and a vehicle, slowing project penetration into remote areas. While LIGA has met its financial commitments, it recommended that LIGA increase its budgetary commitment to the project and absorb a higher percentage of project personnel costs by 3/81. In addition, the accounting and administrative practices recommended to LIGA by independent auditors Price Waterhouse, in their letter dated 5/20/80, should be implemented immediately. In the first year, LIGA information courses directly benefitted 655 people, 40% of whom were illiterate. Of these, 70 requested legal aid, resulting in 60 civil and 10 criminal cases, 50 of which are pending and 15 resolved. The project"s planned beneficiaries include 1,900 rural women who will attend LIGA"s courses and use the legal advisory service and 100 local leaders and LIGA staff, for a total of 2,000.