Changes in the ‘Culture of Politics’ Needed to Improve Women’s Political Participation in 2014
"Increasing women's meaningful participation in political and public life is about changing cultural norms about women and changing the culture of politics," Catherine Russell, the newly confirmed U.S. ambassador-at-large for global women's issues, said in remarks delivered at NDI.
At an event co-hosted with the International Republican Institute, Ambassador Russell examined challenges facing women's political participation around the world and how they could be addressed. "We believe that peace, security, prosperity, and economic growth cannot be achieved without the full participation of women," Russell said. Noting the integral connection between women's participation in politics and governance, Russell stated that "women's participation affects the types of policy issues that are debated and decided in parliaments, local councils and government ministries… Women's experiences and expertise — and men's experiences and expertise — must both inform policy."
Watch the recording of the event, "Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges for Women's Political Participation in 2014."
New at NDI
Democracy and the Challenge of Change: Training Modules
Building on on more than 30 years of to give women an equal voice in politics, NDI is now offering comprehensive women's program training materials and other resources organized by topic and available for download here. The materials include 14 modules that cover issues and skills that women often struggle with as a result of lack of formal political experience or informal barriers, including resources on campaign management, fundraising, communications and leadership.
A new background paper from the World Bank written by Susan Markham, NDI's director of women's political participation, examines the status of women in politics and makes the case for the full and equitable participation of women in public life. The paper, entitled Women as Agents of Change: Having Voice in Society & Influencing Policy, reviews existing data, identifies the barriers that prevent women's political participation and analyzes strategies that have been used to increase it.
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For 30 years, NDI has been a world leader in promoting women's political participation and supporting the aspirations of women to be equal and active partners in determining the future of their country. Learn more at www.ndi.org.
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