Women’s Inclusion in Government Strengthens Transitions to Democracy
By Denilson Denike
In a recent gathering at the launch of the Multi-Stakeholder Gender Platform in Juba, key figures emphasized the pivotal role of women’s inclusion in government for fostering lasting democratic transitions and promoting peace. Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Mary Nawai Martin, highlighted the significance of women joining political parties to increase their representation in leadership roles.
“I need to remind our aspiring young women that political nominations are made through political parties, not private sectors or civil societies,” emphasized Minister Martin, stressing the importance of women actively participating in the political arena.
Rukaya Mohamed, Deputy Country Representative for UN Women, echoed similar sentiments, underscoring the critical nature of women’s involvement in leadership and decision-making processes during democratic transitions.
“The political participation and leadership of women in fragile environments, particularly during democratic transitions, is critical to sustaining democratic institutions,” Mohamed emphasized.
The research put forth by UN Women indicates that countries with higher female representation in government experience increased peace and stability, as well as improved quality of life across various sectors. Rukaya Mohammed pointed out the positive correlation between women’s participation in politics and decreased likelihood of resorting to violence during crises.
Addressing the patriarchal structures that perpetuate gender inequality and impede women’s rights, Rukaya stressed the need to overcome obstacles hindering women’s meaningful engagement in political processes.
Norwegian Ambassador to South Sudan, Linken Nymann Berryman, highlighted the importance of equal representation for promoting lasting peace and security in the country.
“In the context of promoting lasting peace and security, we often refer to representation. Women should be included as negotiators, as decision-makers, and as legislators – the inclusion of women in decision-making is a step on the way to gender equality in politics and society,” Ambassador Berryman asserted.
The gathering’s discussions emphasized the transformative potential of women’s active involvement in government for building resilient democratic institutions and fostering sustainable peace in post-conflict or fragile states.
