order to reduce project costs. Most schemes were conceived, directed, and financed by central government agencies or others external to the community concerns. 21. In response to a special emphasis on the role of women called for in the Mar de1 Plata Action Plan, changes in perception are being reflected at the policy level. In 1980, the World Conference of the United Nations Decade for Women called upon Member States and United Nations agencies to promote the full participation of women in planning, implementation, and sanitation projects.and application of technology for water supply The mid-Decade report of the Secretary-General on Decade progress (A/40/108-E/1985/49) recommended that Member States establish mechanisms for the support of women and community participation in planning, delivery of services, user education and maintenance of facilities. The General Assembly, in its resolution 401171, encouraged Member States to formulate and implement strategies to enhance the participation of women in the planning, operation and assessment. of water and sanitation programmes and projects. More recent regional meetings and donor consultations have focused on specific procedures for increasing women’s participation. 22. As the Decade progressed, it became increasingly clear that project success, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas, is highly dependent upon the degree of community participation in projects and their responsibility for continued operation. An important element of these efforts has been the involvement of /. . .IA/45/327 English Page 7 communities in health education aspects related to the utilisation of facilities. The establishment of a sense of ownership requires that the system users0 and women in particular, have some decision-making role in project development, including system planning, financing, operation, maintenance and management. It is now evident that the full participation of the community and enhanced women's involvement, together with the utilization of low-cost appropriate technology, are
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the importance of community participation and women's involvement in water and sanitation projects, with a focus on reducing project costs and increasing project success. The language used suggests a focus on development and sustainability, rather than emergency relief or humanitarian aid. The text also references international agreements and conferences, which suggests a global or international scope.

**Category**
Health, International trade