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Elections

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

What Labour’s election means for women: the good and the bad

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July 8, 2024

What Labour’s election means for women: the good and the bad

It’s a good day for women’s representation in politics. The proportion of women MPs has reached a record high of 40.6%. Women are expected to hold a number of prominent positions in the new government, including the UK’s first female chancellor.

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It’s a good day for women’s representation in politics. The proportion of women MPs has reached a record high of 40.6%. Women are expected to hold a number of prominent positions in the new government, including the UK’s first female chancellor.

Foreign Affairs
July 3, 2024
The Global Assault on Women in Politics

This year, countries accounting for nearly half of the world’s population are holding national elections.

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UK: Candidate selections reflect the barriers for women in politics

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June 25, 2024

UK: Candidate selections reflect the barriers for women in politics

Last week, all UK political parties confirmed which candidates they were standing in each constituency for the 2024 general election. Including independents, a total of 4,515 candidates will be fighting for a seat in the next government.

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Last week, all UK political parties confirmed which candidates they were standing in each constituency for the 2024 general election. Including independents, a total of 4,515 candidates will be fighting for a seat in the next government.

Bulgarian News Agency
June 23, 2024
Female Representation in Bulgarian Politics Still Low after Latest Elections, Foundation Says

Women account for 27% of Bulgaria's new National Assembly (parliament), elected by a snap vote on June 9 and sworn in on June 19.

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Gender quotas must be introduced in local government in order to achieve equality

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June 23, 2024

Gender quotas must be introduced in local government in order to achieve equality

The recent local elections are a real-time example of why we need gender quotas. 

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The recent local elections are a real-time example of why we need gender quotas. 

Women in Indian Politics: A story that has changed little over the years

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June 20, 2024

Women in Indian Politics: A story that has changed little over the years

India recently concluded its 2024 general elections, which took place in seven phases—from April 19 to June 1—to elect all 543 members of the Lok Sabha (lower house).

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India recently concluded its 2024 general elections, which took place in seven phases—from April 19 to June 1—to elect all 543 members of the Lok Sabha (lower house).

A lack of real progress on women in politics

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June 17, 2024

A lack of real progress on women in politics

Only 30% of candidates are female, writes Hannah Stevens. The issues lie in selection processes and procedures that create enormous barriers to entry for women, disabled people and ethnic minorities.

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Only 30% of candidates are female, writes Hannah Stevens. The issues lie in selection processes and procedures that create enormous barriers to entry for women, disabled people and ethnic minorities.

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