Dramatic changes brought about by information and communication technologies (ICTs) have created new economic and social opportunities the world over. Their use, however, continues to be governed by existing power relations. This issue of In Brief looks at the relationship between ICTs and gender equality. Women, particularly poor women, often lack the necessary infrastructure, skills, literacy and knowledge of English to make the most of the opportunities opened up by ICTs. However some individuals and organisations are using ICTs to promote gender equality. The Feminist International Radio Endeavour (FIRE) is a women's Internet radio station that uses these technologies to promote exchange between women across the globe. The work of the Self Employed Women's Association (SEWA) use ICTs for capacity-building provided of women living in remote areas. This Gender and Development In Brief newsletter forms part of the Cutting Edge Pack on Gender and ICTs.