How to achieve gender parity in politics

Women play a critical role in development. One of the most significant places where gender parity must be achieved is in politics. This is because political office holders often drive the economic, social and policy agenda of a country.

However, getting a seat at the table is no mean feat. Although gender equality and women’s empowerment have advanced, the political arena has one of the lowest female representations, with only 23 per cent of parliamentary seats worldwide being held by women. This low average is brought about by countries with zero or very low women representation.