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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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January 23, 2020
Indian women lawmakers face abuse as global online violence rises

Nearly 100 Indian women politicians faced abuse, including rape and death threats, on social media during elections last year, with researchers on Thursday raising concerns over rising online violence against women globally.

January 23, 2020
Sen. Brittany Pettersen makes history as first state lawmaker to give birth during a legislative session in Colorado

State Sen. Brittany Pettersen made history late Sunday when she gave birth to her son, becoming the first state lawmaker in Colorado history to give birth during the course of a legislative session.

Interviews

January 22, 2020
Women’s political representation: Progressing in Malaysia?

While female political representation has increased under the Pakatan Harapan (PH) administration, progress remains slow and women are still impeded from advancing towards roles of leadership.

January 22, 2020
Katerina Sakellaropoulou becomes Greece's first woman president

High court judge and human rights advocate Katerina Sakellaropoulou has been elected Greece's first female president by parliament

January 21, 2020
Africa needs more female leaders

In many African countries, it is time for elections this year.

'Little Women' reminds us how stuck we have been on judging female politicians

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January 20, 2020

'Little Women' reminds us how stuck we have been on judging female politicians

"I am angry nearly every day of my life," Laura Dern's Mrs.

"I am angry nearly every day of my life," Laura Dern's Mrs.

vox
January 16, 2020
How much does sexism matter for female candidates?

Sexism plays a role in every election — but using it to disqualify female candidates completely misses the point.