Achieving good governance : the essential participation of women

Abstract

This discusses underscores the critical role of women in achieving good governance across Africa, addressing key themes such as political representation, peacebuilding, post-conflict reconstruction, human rights, and decentralization. It highlights the persistent underrepresentation of women in African parliaments, with an average of only 11% representation, far below the UN's 30% target. Barriers such as educational disparities, cultural norms, and gender stereotyping continue to limit women's participation in governance. The document also emphasizes women's vital contributions to peace processes and post-conflict reconstruction, noting their disproportionate suffering during conflicts and their exclusion from decision-making roles. The document addresses the gap between legal protections for women's rights and their enforcement, advocating for increased legal literacy and the establishment of a protocol on women's human rights under the African Charter.