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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

2023 elections: When will an all-men Nigerian association endorse female aspirants?

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March 30, 2022

2023 elections: When will an all-men Nigerian association endorse female aspirants?

Want to see drama? Take an interest in Nigeria’s elections. From seemingly true-intentioned motives to the ‘aspire to perspire’ speeches and the comical jumps across party lines, election season is an interesting period here.

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Want to see drama? Take an interest in Nigeria’s elections. From seemingly true-intentioned motives to the ‘aspire to perspire’ speeches and the comical jumps across party lines, election season is an interesting period here.

March 30, 2022
Meet the women fighting to change the face of Lebanese politics

Female politicians still face numerous obstacles despite momentum for change.

On a sunny afternoon near a busy motorway in Beirut, former Lebanese MP Paula Yacoubian sits in the headquarters of her charitable organisation.

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March 28, 2022
Female opposition MP among dozens killed in Somalia bombings

Al-Shabaab claim responsibility for attacks, including that which killed Amina Mohamed Abdi in run-up to elections this week.

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March 23, 2022
Palestinian female candidates struggle to change political, social attitudes

Despite efforts to encourage women to both vote and run in local elections in the West Bank, candidates say much work remains to be done.

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India: Congress’ idea of fielding more women candidates must not fade away

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March 23, 2022

India: Congress’ idea of fielding more women candidates must not fade away

For nearly all political parties in India, women’s role in politics seems to begin and end as voters. In contrast to this, the Congress’ decision to give 40% tickets to women in UP was a refreshing change.

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For nearly all political parties in India, women’s role in politics seems to begin and end as voters. In contrast to this, the Congress’ decision to give 40% tickets to women in UP was a refreshing change.

March 22, 2022
In a first, women to head 70% of Zilla Parishads in Odisha

With women voters rooting for the candidates across districts, more women nominees were elected in the panchayat polls this year.

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Why are there few women in Indian politics?

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March 21, 2022

Why are there few women in Indian politics?

Despite studies showing widespread public acceptance of female politicians in India, women's political participation in the South Asian country remains low.

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Despite studies showing widespread public acceptance of female politicians in India, women's political participation in the South Asian country remains low.

Kenya election: sexist language shows that patriarchy refuses to give way

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March 21, 2022

Kenya election: sexist language shows that patriarchy refuses to give way

In December 2020, a leading Kenyan political party official, Edwin Sifuna, made vulgar remarks against a woman member of parliament. While campaigning for their political allies in a by-election, Sifuna said the woman is “not attractive enough to rape”.

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In December 2020, a leading Kenyan political party official, Edwin Sifuna, made vulgar remarks against a woman member of parliament. While campaigning for their political allies in a by-election, Sifuna said the woman is “not attractive enough to rape”.

March 20, 2022
Meet the women in Timor-Leste's presidential election

As Timor-Leste looks to its presidential elections on Saturday, several female candidates are standing. Will they persuade the new generation of voters of a need for a greater voice in politics?

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