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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

Challenges to Women in the Voter Registration Process

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December 2, 2013

Challenges to Women in the Voter Registration Process

The paper begins with an explanation of the international law, treaties and obligations that require states to ensure women’s access to and equality in the voter registration process.

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The paper begins with an explanation of the international law, treaties and obligations that require states to ensure women’s access to and equality in the voter registration process.

December 1, 2013
Can Women Save US Democrats in 2014?

The Democratic Party is hoping 2014 will be a Year of the Woman—again.

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November 24, 2013
Turkey: women want bigger role in politics

As the deadline for the finalization of Turkey's local election electoral lists draws closer, an association of women's groups has launched a campaign to entice political party leaders to nominate more women as candidates in 2014 elections.

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November 23, 2013
Socialist Bachelet faces runoff election in Chile

The leader in the race for president of Chile, Michelle Bachelet took 47% of the vote in November 17th elections. She will face a run-off against opponent Evelyn Matthei of the ruling center-right Alliance on December 15 who received 25% of the vote.

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November 20, 2013
Women voters outnumber men in Bhaktapur, Nepal

Women voters outnumbered male voters in Bhaktapur district in the CA election that concluded on Tuesday with the highest voter turnout in the country's electoral history.

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November 19, 2013
A ‘Head Start’ for Women Mayors and Councilors in Nicaragua

A revision to Nicaragua’s law on municipal elections last year required political parties to put up equal numbers of women and men as candidates for mayor and city council. It also increased the number of city council seats in each municipality.

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November 18, 2013
AU Observer team’s parting shot on elections, Swaziland
SWAZILAND needs to reserve a quota for women and physically challenged persons in the electoral process. This would guarantee full representation of women and marginalised groups in elective positions.The Africa
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