Women and youth constitute an important but often neglected group in Nepalese politics. Irrespective of their ideologies, political parties are unanimous in their agreement on the importance these groups can play within their parties. When it comes to allocating positions of authority, however, both women and youth are often relegated to the background. This has resulted in an increasing number of women and youth leaders who are disillusioned with the political process.

“Africa is a better place with youth participation in politics and its future is brighter with women  leadership,” @AUC_DPA tweeted, quoting African Union (AU) Commission Director for Political Affairs (DPA) Khabele Matlosa. Matlosa’s words encapsulated the spirit of the youth pre-forum to the AU’s 4th Annual High-Level Dialogue on Democracy, Human Rights and Governance.

“We cannot talk about democracy in Honduras without addressing the fulfillment of women's’ rights,” declared Yadira Bendaña, the president of the Honduran National Congress’ Gender Equality Commission, as she addressed women from several political parties and human rights groups who had gathered to review how gender equality and empowerment have advanced in Honduras.