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
Newly elected Pakistani National Assembly is effectively in place. The Prime Minister has taken oath of his office; the most interesting feature of this new assembly is the group of women on reserved seats.
Ahead of a tripartite elections next year the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has shown the world that it is moving with time by setting a deliberate policy to allow women in the country pay 25 per cent less the nomination fees of parliamentary and local government elections.
ZAMBIA National Women's Lobby says it is saddened by the decreasing number of women holding high positions at local government level.
A useful workshop aimed at generating an understanding in the media of Haiti’s women’s quota was held on 13 June in Port au Prince.
In Kenya’s male-dominated political landscape, women face many barriers to political participation, especially when seeking elective office.