Women make up only 23.5% of Members of Parliament according to the latest available data of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. While significant strides in women’s political participation have been made since the adoption of the Beijing Platform for Action in 1995, which set Member States’ target of achieving gender balance in political decision-making, women are still underrepresented in political decision-making at all levels and gender balance remains an aspirational goal. Gains in women’s participation have been notable in countries that have taken proactive steps to support women’s political participation, including reforming or amending discriminatory laws, taking concrete action to address violence against women in politics and gender discrimination within parliaments, addressing gender-specific barriers, and supporting women in all forms of decision-making including at local level and in executive government.
Tirana, 15 December 2025 – Media monitoring of Albania’s 2025 parliamentary elections found persistent gender imbalances and violence against women in politics, particularly in media coverage and online discourse.
Marigona Shabiu, executive director at YIHR
Marigona Shabiu, executive director at YIHR
1912: New Mexico becomes the 47th state admitted to the Union.
Globally, an estimated one in five women have a disability.
Globally, an estimated one in five women have a disability.
Introduction
Introduction
Feminist scholars and advocates have long asserted that women’s rights and gender equality are fundamental prerequisites for democratic governance.
Feminist scholars and advocates have long asserted that women’s rights and gender equality are fundamental prerequisites for democratic governance.
In recent years, India has witnessed a significant rise in women’s empowerment, reflected in greater participation in education, politics, entrepreneurship, and social activism.
In recent years, India has witnessed a significant rise in women’s empowerment, reflected in greater participation in education, politics, entrepreneurship, and social activism.
The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has emphasized the importance of inclusive political participation, calling for increased women’s representation in nation-building efforts.