In places as diverse as Timor-Leste, Croatia, Morocco, Rwanda and South Africa, increasing numbers of women are being elected to political office. In each case, more women has meant more legislation related to anti-discrimination, domestic violence, family codes, inheritance, and child support and protection.

NDI welcomes Susan Markham as the Institute’s director of women’s political participation.

Markham, who received her B.A. in political science and international studies from Ohio State University and her master’s in public policy from George Washington University, served as finance director for the Ohio Democratic Party, campaign manager for several statewide campaigns and director of Senate Services at the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.

NDI celebrated its 25th anniversary on May 10 by honoring two champions of democracy, Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai of Zimbabwe and the Network of Chocó Women of Colombia, at an event hosted by NDI Chairman Madeleine K. Albright.