International Foundation for Electoral Systems:
IFES' Muslim Women's Initiative (MWI), a pilot program involving five organizations in two states of India, aimed to bring Muslim women closer to the Indian democratic mainstream, decreasing their isolation as a marginalized group within a religious minor
International Foundation for Electoral Systems:
Widespread gender discrimination is largely due to strong patriarchal traditions and religious beliefs
International Foundation for Electoral Systems:
Despite early concerns that women were not well-represented, women came out in large numbers to register for the 2011 referendum on self-determination for southern Sudan. At the end of the registration period, 40 percent of all registered voters were wome
International Foundation for Electoral Systems:
On November 23, 2011, the parliament voted to amend the constitution and create 22 new and reserved seats for women.
International Foundation for Electoral Systems:
Women make up more than 50 percent of the population, yet their voice is often missing from political dialogue.
International Foundation for Electoral Systems:
A revised family law establishes many guarantees for women and is touted as a model legal framework throughout the Muslim world
International Foundation for Electoral Systems:
Discrimination against women and girls has limited access to education and discouraged learning about and exercising the right to vote.
International Foundation for Electoral Systems:
Men have historically controlled decision making as well as political, social and economic resources.
International Foundation for Electoral Systems:
Although the constitution prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender and encourages full participation by women in social and economic life, 60 percent of women are illiterate and remain confined to traditional roles.
International Foundation for Electoral Systems:
Female elected officials often face harassment and violence, which can result in renouncement of their elected positions.