The 13% rise in the number of women voters compared to the 2013 Assembly elections is no doubt a good sign in a democratic set up. But, relatively, the number of women candidates fielded by all main political parties is abysmally low, although the total number has gone up from 170 in 2013 to 219 this year.

Quotas to get more women into key positions in politics, business and the arts must be introduced to address a massive imbalance of power in Britain, according to equality campaigners.

President Danny Faure has announced a cabinet reshuffle involving a reduction in the size of the Cabinet which will now comprise 10 ministers in addition to the president and the vice‑president.

Carlos Alvarado, of the Citizen Action Party (PAC), based his presidential campaign during Costa Rica’s second electoral round on a promise of national unity. Last night, less than two weeks from Inauguration Day, he announced a Cabinet filled with familiar faces from five parties.

Women Speakers of Parliament will identify clear actions to eliminate barriers to women’s political participation, end harassment of female MPs, and promote inclusive parliaments.