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
This report provides a general view of the position of women in the legislative powers in three periods: between the 1970s and the 1980s, around 1995 and in 2004.
This article describes the participation and representation of women in local government elections in South Africa.
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This consolidated response highlights tools used to empower women candidates, such as providing training, working with political parties, using affirmative action measures,and holding outreach campaigns.
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This poster was used in a national media campaign aimed at promoting women's participation in the electoral process in Lebanon.
This poster was used as a part of a media campaign targeted at women voters in the 2002 legislative elections in Morocco.