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
Only 208 women will sit in the Assemblée Nationale, representing just over a third of all MPs. This is the second time in two years that the proportion of women in the Assemblée has fallen.
The first woman governor of Tokyo, Yuriko Koike, has won a third term – against another woman candidate. The race between multiple women signifies a push for greater female representation in Japanese politics, which is still overwhelmingly dominated by men.
Following an intense week of elections, the IPU’s two founding members, France and the United Kingdom, have just completed their parliamentary elections.
Another election, another round of politicians who tout the same ideas, speak the same way, wear the same suits and, possibly, the same aftershave.
Welcome to the first installment of the new "International Election Series," where they explore the vital role women play in shaping democratic processes around the world.
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.
Around the world, the far-right is using anti-immigrant rhetoric around protecti
This year, countries accounting for nearly half of the world’s population are holding national elections.
