Démographie spatiale des Balkans : tendances et enjeux Spatial demography of the Balkans: trends and challenges IV ème Conférence internationale de Démographie des Balkans IV th International Conference of Balkans Demography THE USE OF CENSUS DATA IN GEND

Abstract This paper discussed the census as a source of data used in clarifying gender inequality. The analysis of demographic material includes age, time and spatial dimension. Possibilities and contribution usage of census data depend on the gender perspective in collecting, treatment, analysis and presenting. In countries in the region of the gender aspect is not satisfactory implemented. In some of them, the census questionnaire allowed a more realisitic insight into marital status and the more meaningful material for socio-economic characteristics (such as Bulgaria and Romania). Spatial dimension is represented by two viewpoints. One is the way that presented data are territorially organized, and the other is an approach to the analysis. From the prespecitve of gender differences, it is important that the diverse and comprehensive content is easily accessible for lower levels of territorial constituiton. States in the region differ in that also. Positive examples are Croatia and Romania. Comparative analysis of the states allow consideration of gender inequality in the region. In order for that to be possible in the most extensive material, it is necessary to align the content and presentation of all relevant data. The importance of spatial framework was confirmed in the consideration of gender difference on the example of Serbia. The differences in matrimonial, education and economic acivity of women and men, by areas, have been observed. Spatial dimensions implies the socio-economic and socio-cultural characteristics of settlements, areas, countries or regions. Census material may contribute to a more complete insight and deeper understanding of gender inequality, but needs to remove all obstacles to such analysis