This paper explores the problems and prospects inherent in developing a data base that can effectively address emerging issues including a more sensitive approach to gender-related development indices. The preliminary sections are in the nature of a data inventory, providing an overview of the state of statistics in four key areas that determine the quality of life experienced by women and men: education, work participation, health and political participation. The concluding observations show how our mainstream data systems are capable of responding to data requirements in the context of the newly evolved development measures presented in UNDP's Human Development Reports, 1995
