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International Knowledge Network of Women in Politics
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The right to vote and the right to stand for election are two fundamental tenets of democracy. Notably, many countries did not afford women the right to vote until the 20th Century. Even today, universal suffrage is not a given right in all countries, and women often face obstacles that undermine their participation in political and electoral processes.
Such obstacles can be political in nature, specific to the electoral system in use or a lack of a given political party’s support for female candidates. Obstacles can also be socio-economic, such as poverty, unemployment and lack of education, all of which result in an inferior social standing and affect women’s financial ability to engage in politics. Other obstacles can be of an ideological nature: Cultural norms, fixed gender roles, the lack of confidence among women to engage in politics and media portrayal of women in politics all have an influence on women’s participation.
There are various ways to support women in overcoming these obstacles. Such methods include revising the electoral system used, applying affirmative action mechanisms such as quotas, improving voter education for women and training political candidates. These are a few of the modes available to strengthen women’s political participation.
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From the Library
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.
Indian Experience of Women’s Quota in Local Government: Implications for Future Strategies
This paper highlights Indian experiences with introducing and using gender quotas in politics at local and national levels. It also describes different types of potential candidates and the impact of various players, such as media and women's organizations, on women's political participation.
Conditions determining the level of representation of women: The experience of quota system in Latin America
This report provides a general view of the position of women in the legislative powers in three periods: between the 1970s and the 1980s, around 1995 and in 2004. It also describes an increasing trend in the participation of women in Latin American parliaments that is independent of the quotas.
Nigeria: Political Transition and the Complexities of Gender Empowerment
This paper describes the presence of women in institutionalized politics in Nigeria.
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.
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