The right to vote and the right to stand for election are two fundamental elements of democracy. Notably, many countries did not afford women the right to vote until the 20th Century. Even today, universal suffrage is not a given right in all countries, and women often face obstacles that undermine their participation in political and electoral processes. There are various ways to support women in overcoming these obstacles. Such methods include revising the electoral system used, applying affirmative action mechanisms such as quotas, improving voter education for women and training political candidates. These are a few of the modes available to strengthen women’s political participation .Photo©Jens Franssen
Ireland’s Prime Minister, or Taoiseach, Mr. Enda Kenny, has recently declared his intentions to constitute a parity government if he is to continue in power after the next elections.
Michele Bachelet, President of the Republic of Chile, has participated this week in the forum ‘Women and Youth Dialogue’, celebrated this week at the Miriam College, in Quezon City (Philippines).
Sixteen years ago the BRIDGE –Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections– project was initiated.
The joint publication of UNDP and UN Women entitled ‘Inclusive Electoral processes: A Guide for Electoral Management Bodies on Promoting Gender Equality and Women’s Participation’ is a valuable co
The National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI) is seeking to hire a Resident Director/Chief of Party (COP) to support a forthcoming community engagement program in South Sudan. A commitment of three years is expected for this position.
Background
Over the last decade, iKNOW Politics has spoken with many women leaders around the world about the challenges they face in political life. Women interviewed often speak openly about the difficulties of combining a political career with family responsibilities, and in particular, the frequent travel required to meet with constituents or attend parliamentary sessions and committee meetings, usually held away from the family home, in the capital.
Over the last decade, iKNOW Politics has spoken with many women leaders around the world about the challenges they face in political life. Women interviewed often speak openly about the difficulties of combining a political career with family responsibilities, and in particular, the frequent travel required to meet with constituents or attend parliamentary sessions and committee meetings, usually held away from the family home, in the capital.