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.
A growing number of single women are running for public office. In order to beat their opponents, they may need to shatter some unfair stigmas first. Lily Espinoza Ploski is a Latina single mom to a 14-year-old son.
Most African countries are signatories of numerous protocols that encourage gender equality in politics, yet analysts say more still needs to be done to implement these protocols and ensure women are not sidelined.
First Female Mayor of Tunis
The capital of Tunisia is likely to see its first female mayor, following the country's municipal elections this week.
Media’s negative projection of women politicians is discouraging others from joining the male dominated field, the Zimbabwe Gender Commission has observed.
As African countries push for respect and promotion of gender equality, political will is key to accelerate attainment of gender equality on the continent.
Hajia Maryam Bagel, a member representing Dass constituency, Bauchi state Assembly has lament the non-participation of Northern women in active politics.
The European Union (EU) is worried that since its huge investment in Nigerian politics, there had been no improvement in women participation.