In light of Pakistan’s fourth periodic report to the CEDAW Committee in Geneva on 12 February, UN Women spoke to the recently appointed Chairperson of the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW). The new and autonomous Commission became part of the constitution on 8 March, 2012. The Commission will function to protect and promote the social, economic, political and legal rights of women. It will work closely with provincial Governments to ensure that provincial commissions on the status of women are also established.

Nearly half of Ukrainians think there are too few women in elected office, according to a survey released today by the National Democratic Institute (NDI). Ukrainians believe women politicians are better equipped than men to deal with many important policy issues, and they want political parties to address barriers to women’s political participation. Regardless of their age, education, or marital or parental status, the women surveyed believe that supporting qualified women candidates is important.

The "Women in Local Democracy" Project addresses women’s representation and meaningful participation in decision-making processes in Armenia. WiLD is comprised of three main dimensions: women’s empowerment, strengthening the capacity of local government, and promotion of gender equality.

(Source: UNDP)

Photo: Michelle Bachelet on her official trip to Senegal; photo credit: UN Women – Bruno Demeocq

Photo: Many expect Hillary Clinton to make a bid for the White House in 2016, but she could face some major hurdles. Photographer: Elise Amendola/AP

By Suzanne Goldenberg on Saturday 29 December 2012