Campaigns

During Egypt’s revolution, thousands of women joined men in the streets to promote democratic reform. Now, as the country prepares for its first post-revolution parliamentary elections this fall, women are seeking to participate equally in the challenges of governing.

Women who want to enter politics in Burkina Faso face a number of barriers, such as lack of faith in their leadership abilities, few role models and limited opportunities. So it is a struggle in this West African country for women to run for office, rise within party ranks or contribute to party platforms. Those who manage to win elections don’t receive the same level of political party support and training as men and, as a result, have a harder time being successful as office holders.

Over the last eight years, Iraqi women have become increasingly active in politics, taking on some of the country’s most vexing issues — peace and security, economic empowerment, social justice, education and the environment. Their goal is to achieve consensus across regional, political and sectarian lines in a nation where coexistence and compromise are not everyday occurrences.

Yingluck Shinawatra was poised to become Thailand's first female prime minister Sunday after her party won a majority of parliamentary seats in the nation's general elections.

The official tally had not yet been completed, but with more than 90 percent of votes counted Sunday night, Yingluck's Pheu Thai party had won 262 seats in the country's 500-seat parliament.

We invite you to read the full article published July 4, 2011