Abstract: (Circa 100 – 150 words is preferable) The Wildlife and Development series highlights key topics in the field of sustainable wildlife use and is aimed at policy-makers, planners, government extension workers and NGOs. The Engendering Eden research programme aimed to fill some of the existing gaps on issues concerned with the relationships between women, gender and ICDPs (integrated conservation and development projects) by understanding what differences and inequities exist within communities and how these effect participation and the distribution of benefits and costs in relation to them. This document summarises the experiences and lessons learnt of a number of ICDPs and CBNRM projects in Africa and Asia (described in more detail in the two regional studies - Engendering Eden Volumes II and III). The research in both Africa and Asia showed that conservation processes in general, remain dominated by men, that there is a conflict between short-term household needs and long-term conservation objectives. In both regions gender issues are addressed rarely, and even then ineffectually. This has led to various negative impacts.More recently a gender-focused approach has been promoted. As a result, projects now make attempts to increase women's empowerment through such as education and capacity building. However components still remain fragmented and under resourced. There is much room for improvement. This publication indicates a number of ways forward. Any Other Info: Part of a 3 volume set within the Wildlife and Development Series