The 15 countries that make up the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have been working since 2008 to achieve parity in women's political participation by 2015. It's a goal from the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development, which sets out ways to achieve gender equality through legislation and affirmative action. Some countries have made great strides toward achieving equal numbers of elected men and women, one measure of parity, but Zambia and Lesotho are lagging far behind.

NDI has recognized the courage of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and her years of sacrifice working for a democratic Burma. Suu Kyi was released Saturday after being illegally detained by Burma's military regime for 15 of the last 21 years.

"Her release marks a new chapter in the career and life of one of the world's great heroines," said NDI Chairman Madeleine K. Albright. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Aung San Suu Kyi and her people, and we will do everything in our power to be supportive as she continues the struggle to bring true democracy to Burma."

Fifteen years after the genocide that devastated Rwanda, the country is still dealing with its lasting impact on politics and governance. Rwandans are looking to their government to deal with issues such as poverty and regional integration, and they are hoping for responsiveness from politicians and political parties. With presidential elections approaching, we sat down with Gaston Aín, NDI’s former country director in Rwanda, to learn more about the political landscape, the role of young people and NDI’s work with political parties.

As Kyrgyzstan prepares for parliamentary elections on Oct. 10, women candidates are getting ready for what they hope will be a strong run for representation in the new legislature.