This seminar provided an opportunity to discuss the unique needs of women party activists, Members of Parliament, candidates and civil society experts in the Arab region, as well as to identify potential partnerships and resources.

The purpose of the regional seminar was to provide a platform of exchange for women from 11 countries in the region to identify the barriers that hinder women’s adequate representation in elections and parliament, and understand the complex internal dynamics which characterize the situation of Arab women in politics, both in their race to get elected, and in their progress within the parliamentary institution. The seminar addressed the impact of recently introduced measures (reform of electoral system or rules, reserved seats, statutory quotas, etc.) and provided an opportunity for women to share testimonials about their experiences.

Following this regional dialogue, UNDP plans to identify a core group of participants that could serve as a regional task force whose mission is to thoroughly address the issues through policy dialog, knowledge sharing and advocacy. iKNOW Politics will serve as one platform for this ongoing dialogue.

To read the full UNDP report on the seminar, please click here.