Parliaments and Representatives

In the mid-1990s, Arizona State University political scientist Kim Fridkin dubbed U.S. press coverage of male and female candidates vying for state office a “distorted mirror” marked by gender bias that failed to accurately reflect the political landscape.

The representation of women in Ghana's Fourth Republic Parliament has remained notably low. 

According to Table 1, the percentage of female parliamentarians elected in the 2020 election 40/275(14.55%) marked the highest figure since 1996.

Yet, it falls significantly below the global and sub-Saharan averages of 26.7 per cent and 27.1 per cent respectively. Without deliberate measures, this percentage is likely to decrease by the upcoming elections on December 7.

The 2024 parliamentary elections in Jordan are poised to be a transformative event in the country's political landscape. With new electoral laws designed to enhance representation and increase the participation of women and youth, Jordan is taking significant steps towards a more inclusive and party-based governance model. As the elections draw near, expectations for substantial reforms and changes are high.

In a statement issued on Thursday, August 29, 2024, the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman, expressed concern over the persistent harassment, discrimination, and violence directed at female politicians, candidates, and activists.

The Ministry noted that recent reports indicate that women in politics are subjected to high levels of verbal abuse, threats, and cyberbullying, impacting both their personal lives and professional reputations.

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen is determined to achieve gender parity in her executive Commission amid resistance from member states. She is advocating for a balanced representation of men and women among EU commissioners. Despite legal limitations, von der Leyen's efforts highlight the ongoing struggle for gender equality within the political framework of the EU.