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Political Parties
In a representative democracy, political parties are vitally important. Political parties function as a link between state institutions and local grassroots organizations. It is political parties that aggregate interests, present political alternatives and nominate candidates. In all such matters, the political parties play an essential role for the advancement of women and the promotion of equality, as they function as the gatekeepers of candidate selection and political power. In this section, you will find information on the role of political parties in promoting women.
Sub-topics:
- Candidate Selection
- Internal Organization
- Outreach
- Parties in Parliament
- Party Funding
- Party Regulation
- Policy and Platform Development
- Political Parties (general)
- Women’s Party Sections
From the Library
Consolidated Response on Women’s Caucuses and Their Impact on the Political Culture of Latin American Countries
This consolidated response analyzes the role and historical development of multi-party parliamentary women’s caucuses. The response looks into the goals, challenges and achievements of women's caucuses in parliaments in Latin American countries. It also highlights successful case studies from Latin America.
Political Parties: When do They Work for Women?
This paper analyzes the consideration of gender issues by political parties in Latin America and assesses circumstances under which political parties best incorporate gender demands.
The Impact of Women’s Participation and Leadership on Policy Outcomes: A Focus on Women’s Policy Machineries
This paper is to focus on the role of women policy agencies in enhancing women’s political participation with a particular emphasis on their influence on women’s participation and leadership in policy outcomes.
Gender and Elections in Lesotho: Perspectives on the 2002 Elections
This paper analyzes access and participation of women in Lesotho's 2002 elections. It also describes history of gender equality in Lesotho, and highlights international and regional agreements serving as a tool for promoting women in politics.
Democratic Consolidation and Political Parties in Lesotho
This paper analyzes political processes in Lesotho, including features and weakness of political parties, and highlights the factors leading to the under-representation of women in Parliament.
Intra-Party Democracy and the Inclusion of Women
This article analyzes the representation of women in political decision making positions and processes in SADC member states. It also describes intra-party electoral systems and procedures as well as quotas and special measures applied in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Gender, Women and Electoral Politics in Zimbabwe
This paper analyzes electoral processes, national legislative framework, and the impact of international and regional agreements on Zimbabwe's elections. It also describes specific problems faced by women as candidates such as hostility from men, insufficient funding, and resistance to quotas.






