WEBINAR REPORT 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BEIJING PLATFORM FOR ACTION ADVANCING WOMEN’S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN THE NEXT DECADE

INTRODUCTION

The Beijing Declaration in 1995 recognized that gender equality, inclusion and representation is essential to democracy. However, 30 years later, progress remains uneven and at risk, with a backlash against gender equality and democratic values threatening hard-won gains. The Report on Beijing30+ review meeting recognizes that the empowerment of women as leaders and decision-makers remains crucial to sustainable development and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Furthermore, it affirms that Gender-balanced decision-making is integral to justice, effective governance, peace and human rights. Therefore, increasing women’s participation in leadership roles within political, public, and economic sectors is essential for inclusive societies, strengthening economies, and enriching the decision-making processes. Yet this recognition must be embedded in systems of change, legislations, social norms, and backed by a strong political will to enhance the role of women in politics. 

Building on the above context, this webinar series explored the challenges, opportunities, and future for women in politics, highlighting global trends in women's political participation over the past 30 years. The discussion was conducted in three languages (Arabic, English, and French) and was structured around the following key questions:

• History of the Beijing Platform for Action – Significance of the platform as a key moment in history that guided women’s equal representation and participation.

• How have indicators on gender equality changed over the last 30 years?

• How do we as development sector practitioners improve women’s political participation in the next decade? What steps must be taken today?

• Transforming Social Norms for sustainable change. Given the backsliding of democracy, the next decade demands a concerted effort by activists and advocates of gender equality – what steps are needed?

• Looking inwards, how can women-led movements organize better to have concrete impact in the next decade?

Speakers:

• Amanda Luz, Program Director, People Powered (Brazil)

• Anna Sande, Young Politician, Citizens Coalition for Change (Zimbabwe)

• Emma Meche, Youth Activist, Beijing+30 Youth Steering Committee (Albania)

The talk was moderated by Amna Syed, Project Coordinator, iKNOW Politics

Full report.

Full video.