Skip to main content

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

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.

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.

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.

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
November 18, 2013
Stark inequality: Only 80 of 1,110 candidates are women, India

The 1,110 affidavits filed by candidates during the nomination process till Saturday throw up some interesting figures and information about those who want to represent Delhiites in the Assembly. 

Event

Insecurity in Honduras and the Upcoming Elections: What's at Stake for Central America

Back

Insecurity in Honduras and the Upcoming Elections: What's at Stake for Central America

Of the more than 12 elections taking place in Latin America over the next year, the upcoming presidential election in Honduras is perhaps the most pivotal.

Event

November 18, 2013
Michelle Bachelet wins first round in Chile's presidential election

Socialist Michelle Bachelet handily won a first round of Chile's presidential race Sunday, with voters putting her on track to replace the country's conservative leader following a runoff in December.