Women in decision-making spheres in Africa: Fact sheet

Abstract

Ensuring the full and effective participation of women and equal opportunities for female leadership at all levels of decision-making is one of the targets of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In addition to its intrinsic value, the participation of women is essential to the formulation of effective policies that respond to the differential needs of men and women. Africa has made significant strides in the participation of women in decision-making spheres, surpassing Asia and the Pacific and the Middle East, however, the continental achievements hide national and sub regional variations. The present Fact Sheet provides a comparative perspective on the status of women’s representation in national parliaments.