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Women's Leadership

While there have been important advances in women’s leadership in politics, as of November 1 2017, women make up only 7.2% of Heads of State and 6.2% Heads of Government. Data on women representatives in local government, including as mayors, heads of villages and towns, is not well collected and analyzed. The adoption of an SDG indicator on women’s representation in local government is a great step forward in tracking progress on gender balance, allowing for the systematic collection and analysis of data on women in local government. Women’s access to and continued role in leadership positions is challenged by a range of barriers, including discriminatory laws and practices, as well as social norms that prescribe traditional roles and attitudes towards women’s participation in leadership and decision-making roles. Proactive gender-equality policies within political parties and local government structures, including quotas and special temporary measures, gender-sensitive approaches to electoral processes, support networks, mentoring, training, and engagement of male champions, can all help promote women’s role in political leadership. 

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Caspian News
March 8, 2025
Women in Azerbaijan Celebrate Strong Political-Social Involvement

As the world celebrates the International Women’s Day, the women in Azerbaijan continue to drive progress and developments in politics, business, science, education, and entrepreneurship.

Webinar Opportunities and Challenges: Women’s Political Participation in the Digital Age

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March 6, 2025

Webinar Opportunities and Challenges: Women’s Political Participation in the Digital Age

The webinar focused on the challenges and opportunities for women politicians in the digital space.

The webinar focused on the challenges and opportunities for women politicians in the digital space.

IDEA
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GBH
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Young women in America have seen two female presidential candidates lose to President Donald Trump during some of the most formative years of their lives.

The Spokesman-Review
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Where a strongman failed, women are now fueling a democratic revival

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CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation
January 20, 2025
Carving a space for women in Yemeni politics

Ten years of war have severely weakened political life, undermining its role as a peaceful foundation for society in Yemen.

Fighting for change: why the road to parliament is still rocky for women across Africa

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January 9, 2025

Fighting for change: why the road to parliament is still rocky for women across Africa

This year, 18 of Africa’s 54 countries went to the polls for presidential or general elections, making 2024 a significant year on the continent.

This year, 18 of Africa’s 54 countries went to the polls for presidential or general elections, making 2024 a significant year on the continent.

wilson center
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New Opportunities: Claudia Sheinbaum's Presidency and the Future of Mexico’s Gender Policy

Claudia Sheinbaum’s election as Mexico’s president has captured global attention for several reasons. Mexico is the world’s 12th largest economy.

my joy online
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Ghana’s First Female Vice President: A Trailblazer in Leadership and Inspiration

Ghana made history when the National Democratic Congress (NDC) nominated Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang as the running mate to former President John Dramani Mahama for the 2020 general elections.