DHARMASHASTRA NATIONAL LAW

UNIVERSITY JABALPUR

Election laws - 2022-2023

WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN ELECTORAL POLITICS

SUBMITTED BY :- SUBMITTED TO :-
ASTHA DEHARIYA Mrs. Ruchira Chaturvedi
B.A LL.B (HONS) SEMESTER 8 (Assistant Professor Of Law)
ENROLLMENT NO. :- BAL/002/19 Dharmashastra National Law University

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First of all I would like to express my special thanks of gratitude to our vice chancellor Prof.
(Dr.) V. Nagaraj.

Secondly, my subject teacher Assistant Professor Mrs. Ruchira Chaturvedi who gave me
this golden opportunity to work on this wonderful project of the subject of Election Laws
and the name of the project is “ Women Participation in electoral politics” and working on
this topic gave me a deep knowledge about the subject as well as helped me improve my
research skills.
Then finally I would like to express my special thanks to My Family and Friends for helping
me throughout the project.

Astha Dehariya
BAL/002/19

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

 INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………………………4

 ABSTRACT………………………………………………………………………….……5

 WOMEN IN POLITICS…………………………………………………………...……6-8

NEED OF WOMEN IN POLITCS

STATUS OF WOMEN IN POLTICS

HISTORY OF WOMEN IN POLITICS

 WOMEN IN INIA N POLITICS………………………………………………………9-13

POLITICAL PARTICIPATION BEFORE INDEPENDENCE

PARTICIPATION OF WOMEN IN POST-INDEPENDENCE PERIOD

CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS

WOMEN IN LOK SABHA AND RAJYYA SABHA

WOMEN IN PANCHAYTI RAJ INSTITUTION

 DETERMINANTS OF WOMEN’S PARTICIPATION IN ELECTORAL

CONTEST……………………………………………………………………...……..14-22

EDUCATION

INCOME

POLITICAL EMPOWERMENT

TRADITIONAL GENDER ROLES

SOCIAL NORMS

 ANALYSIS AND COCLUSION………………………………………………….…22-23

 POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS………………………………………………..…24-25

 BIBLIOGRAPHY……………………………………………………………………..…26

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 INTRODUCTION
Objectives

1. To know the role of women in the political arena and their political consciousness.
2. To examine the causes responsible for low level participation of women in Indian
Politics.
3. To explore the constraints faced by women in performing their role in electoral politics.
4. To find out the position of women in National Parliament.

Hypothesis

Women’s participation in elections and electoral politics is influenced by various socio-

economic and cultural factors, such as education, income, political empowerment, traditional
gender roles, and social norms.

Research Questions

1. How do socio-economic factors, such as education and income, political

empowerment, traditional gender roles and social norms influence women’s
participation in elections?
2. What are the barriers that prevent women from participating in election, and how do
they vary across different times and different socio-economic and cultural context?
3. What strategies could be implemented to increase women’s participation in elections?

Statement of Problem

This hypothesis suggests that women’s participation in elections is not solely determined by
their individual choices or preferences, but is rather shaped by broader societal factors that
affect their access to political resources and opportunities. For instances, women who have
higher levels of educations and income may be more likely to participate in elections, as they
have greater resources and knowledge to engage in political processes. Similarly, women who
are political empowered or who challenge traditional gender roles may be more likely to
participate in elections, as they have greater awareness of their rights and opportunities to
engage in political activities. On the other hand social norms and cultural beliefs that restricts

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women’s participation in public life may discourage women from participating in elections
even if they have the resources and motivation to do so.

ABSTRACT

Political participation is the hallmark of a democratic setup. Effectiveness of democracy

depends on the extent to which equal and effective participation is provided to all its citizens.
Women comprise about half of the population in India, this requires proper attention and due
share in the political process. Citizens’ active participation in political affairs strengthens the
democratic fabric. Since women’s presence is seemed to be low in Indian politics, it is the
necessary to make women aware of their rights and motivate them for participation in
mainstream politics. The constitution of India under Articles 325 and 326 guarantee equal
right
to participate in political activities effectively. However, lack of space for participation in
political process has not only resulted in their absence in numbers of decision making bodies
but also neglect their common issues and problems. For strong and effective democratic
system, the participation of women is essential. There cannot be any real democracy if the
voices and issues of women are ignored or side-lined. It is widely acknowledged that
women’s political participation is a critical component of a democratic society. However,
despite significant gains in women’s political representation in recent years, women continue
to be underrepresented in many countries around the world. This project seeks to explore why
this is the case by examining the factors that contribute to women's political participation.
This paper analyses the participation of women in electoral politics and also analyses how
various factors and determinants affect women’s participation in elections.

Expected Outcomes: The study is expected to provide insight into the factors that influence
women’s participation in electoral politics. Findings from the study can be used to inform
policies and programs aimed at increasing women’s political participation, particularly in
regions where women are underrepresented in political leadership.

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 CHAPTER 1: WOMEN AND POLITICS

NEED OF WOMEN IN POLITICS

The importance and relevance of women in politics cannot be overstated. Here are some
reasons why:
1. Representation: Women make up half of the population, and their voices and
perspectives are important in shaping policies that affect everyone. When women are
represented in politics, their experiences and needs are more likely to be taken into
account.
2. Diversity: Women bring diversity to political leadership, which can help to challenge
existing power structures and bring fresh perspectives to policy-making. Women’s
diverse experiences and backgrounds can help to create more inclusive policies that
benefit everyone.
3. Equality: Gender equality is a fundamental human right, and women’s participation in
politics is crucial for achieving it. When women are represented in political
leadership, they can advocate for policies that promote gender equality, including
policies related to equal pay, reproductive rights, and ending gender-based violence.
4. Democracy: Women’s participation in politics is essential for creating more
democratic societies. When women are included in political decision-making, they
can help to ensure that policies are responsive to the needs and concerns of all
citizens, not just a privileged few.
5. Inspiration: Women in politics can inspire future generations of women to become
leaders and to participate in political life. When women see other women in positions
of power, they are more likely to believe that they too can achieve political leadership
roles.

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Overall, women’s participation in politics is essential for creating more inclusive, equal, and
democratic societies. Women have a vital role to play in shaping policies and decisions that
affect their lives and the lives of others, and their perspectives and voices must be heard in
political leadership.

STATUS OF WOMEN IN POLITICS

Women in politics have been working to gain equal representation and participation in
political life. This includes running for office, holding political positions, and influencing
policy and decision-making at all levels of government. Despite progress in recent years,
women remain underrepresented in political leadership roles around the world.
Women make up just 25% of national parliamentarians worldwide, according to the Inter-
Parliamentary Union. Women hold only 23% of ministerial positions worldwide, according
to the UN Women.
Women are more likely to be represented in lower-level political positions, such as local
government, but are underrepresented in higher-level positions, such as national
governments. Women are often underrepresented in higher-level political positions, such as
cabinet ministers or heads of state. For example, as of September 2021, only 22 countries in
the world have a female head of state or government.
Women are also underrepresented in political parties, which can make it more difficult for
them to access leadership roles. In many countries, political parties are dominated by men,
and women may struggle to gain support or funding for their campaigns. Women’s
representation in politics has been linked to improved governance, increased social spending,
and better outcomes for women and girls.
The experiences of women in politics are shaped by intersecting factors, such as race,
ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. Women from marginalized
groups may face additional barriers to political participation and may be more likely to face
discrimination or violence.
In many countries, women face significant barriers to political participation, including
discrimination, violence, and social and cultural norms. Increasing women’s representation in

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politics is a global priority, and many countries have launched initiatives to achieve gender
parity in political participation.
Research has shown that increasing women’s representation in political leadership can have a
positive impact on policies related to gender equality, social welfare, and governance. When
women are represented in political decision-making, they are more likely to advocate for
policies that benefit women and marginalized groups.
Overall, women’s participation in politics is crucial for achieving gender equality and
promoting inclusive and democratic societies. There is still much work to be done to ensure
that women have equal opportunities to participate in political life and shape the policies and
decisions that affect their lives.
THE HISTORY OF WOMEN IN POLITICS

The history of women in politics is a long and complex one, with women struggling for
centuries to gain political rights and representation. Following are some significant
milestones and events in the history of women in politics:
1. Suffrage movements: The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw women across the
world fighting for the right to vote. This movement, known as the suffrage movement,
led to women gaining the right to vote in several countries, including the UK, the US,
Canada, and many European countries.
2. First women elected to national office: The first woman to be elected to national
office was Jeannette Rankin, who was elected to the US House of Representatives in
1916. In 1917, Constance Markievicz was elected to the British Parliament, becoming
the first woman to be elected to the House of Commons.
3. Women in government: Following World War II, women began to make significant
gains in political representation, with many countries introducing quotas or other
measures to increase women’s participation in government.
4. Women’s quotas and reserved seats: In many countries, women’s representation in
politics was increased through the use of quotas and reserved seats. For example, in
India, seats are reserved for women in local government bodies, while in Rwanda,
women are required to hold 30% of seats in parliament.
5. Female heads of state: Throughout the 20th century, women began to break barriers
and take on leadership roles in politics. In 1960, Sirimavo Bandaranaike became the
first female head of government, serving as the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. Other

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 notable female heads of state include Golda Meir of Israel, Indira Gandhi of India,
Margaret Thatcher of the UK, and Angela Merkel of Germany.
6. Women’s rights and social movements: In the 1960s and 1970s, women’s rights and
social movements gained momentum in many parts of the world, leading to greater
political participation and representation for women. In 1979, Margaret Thatcher
became the first female prime minister of the United Kingdom.
7. Gender parity initiatives: In recent years, many countries have launched initiatives
aimed at achieving gender parity in politics. For example, in 2017, France passed a
law requiring that women make up at least 50% of candidates for parliamentary
elections.
Despite these gains, women still face significant barriers to political participation and
representation in many countries. The struggle for gender equality in politics continues to this
day and women continue to be underrepresented in politics around the world, and there is still
much work to be done to ensure gender equality in political participation.

CHAPTER 2: WOMEN IN INDIAN POLITICS

“When the history of India’s fight for independence comes to be written the sacrifice made by
the women of India will occupy foremost place” Mahatma Gandhi

occupy foremost place” Mahatma

Gandh
“When the history of India’s fight for independence comes
occupy foremost place” Mahatma Gandh
Democracy is a system of government where people participate either directly or
indirectly in the process of governance. In this context, the problem of low participation of
women is of special concern; women’s participation in decision-making system is
essential for effective governance. Therefore democracy implies equality for all citizens
either men or women. As against this basic notion of democracy what is normally seen is
that women are generally excluded from different walks of life, and more visibly in Politics.
The U.N. observes that women constitute “world’s largest excluded category”. 1 For the
attainment of true democratic spirit better political participation of women shall be ensured.

1
Women’s Participation in Politics and Decision-Making Author: United Nations Publication date: March 2012
http://www.unwomen.org/~/media/headquarters/attachments/sections/library/publications/2012/3/
womensparticipationinpoliticsanddecisionmakingen.pdf

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Democracy will fail in its objectives if women lack equal opportunity to participate in
the governmental decision making process. They are to be equal partners in the nation-
building and political development. Citizens’ participation in political affairs is important
because a situation which results in high participation by members of a group normally
has higher potential for democracy. Equal treatment and opportunity to women in
political life should start from the grassroots level. To provide training and practice in
the process of decision-making, the rural democratic institutions are the ideal structures to
begin with. The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act2 is to accomplish this purpose. The
question of political empowerment of women in rural India has assumed considerable
significance after the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of India. This amendment
provides reservation of seats and posts of chairperson to women in all grassroots level
democratic institutions in the country and this act has brought a silent revolution in the
political empowerment of women in India.

Political Participation Before Independence

In India, women have been given an exalted position in society. During ancient times
they were treated at par with men even in political and philosophical spheres. However,
down the centuries, the position of women in society deteriorated and politically they
were pushed to the background. It was only in the twentieth century, particularly during the
freedom movement under the charismatic leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, that involvement
of women was accepted as the natural course in India. In fact, Gandhi’s notions and
approach towards the role of women in the freedom struggle stood in sharp contrast
to the age-old prejudices against them ingrained in the Indian psyche. The social condition
of women was quite appalling in those times and it was primarily due to the conscious
efforts of the leadership, at the forefront of the freedom struggle, that women fought
against the might of the British empire in partnership with men. Gandhi believed that
women have to play a much meaningful role in politics, making it more accountable,
transparent and corruption free. Writing in Harijan on 21 April 1946, he emphasized the
need to ‘‘enroll women as voters, impart or have imparted to them practical education,
teach them to think independently, release them from the chains of caste that bind them so
as to bring about a change in them…If they will do this, they will purify the present
unclean atmosphere.’’ He prophetically said, “as long as the women of India do not take

2
Constitution of India. (1992). The Constitution (Seventy-third Amendment) Act, 1992.

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part in public life, there can be no salvation for the country.’’ Our freedom struggle was
viewed by the national leaders in a wider perspective of restructuring the socio-
economic and future political set up, to provide in it, among other things, equality of both
men and women. It is worth mentioning that way back in 1920 Smt. Sarojini Naidu and
Ms. Margaret Cousins led a group of women to demand equal rights of representation
for the fair sex in the Indian Provincial Legislatures. Tilak was of the view that political
action on the part of women could be independent of their social status and that political
action was possibly more important than social reform in empowering women.3

Participation Of women In Post Independent Period

In post-independence India, large number of women’s autonomous groups has sprung up

challenging patriarchy and taking up a variety of issues such as violence against women
greater share for women in political decision making etc both at the activist and academic
level. India has a rich and vibrant women’s movement but it has still a long way to go to
achieve gender equality and gender justice. Women’s empowerment is still a debatable issue
in India. She is still treated as a second class citizen and the reason besides are illiteracy,
customs, traditions, poverty, ignorance, her own lack of interest in her own political
empowerment leads to such government policies, which lack proper insight and
direction. It is important for the empowerment of women that the women actively
participate in the political process of nation.

Constitutional Provisions

The Constitution of India adopted a parliamentary form of government and guarantees

justice, liberty and equality to all citizens (men and women). The Constitution not only
grants equality of treatment to women but also calls upon the state to adopt measures
favouring women neutralizing the socio- economic, educational and political
disadvantages that they face. Therefore adoption of our Constitution heralded a new era
of equality for women of India. It guarantees equal political rights including the right to
vote to women. Almost all the provisions contained in the UN Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women’ are there in the Indian
Constitution. Not only does the Constitution guarantee equal political status to women, there
is even a scope for ‘positive discrimination’ in their favour as is evident in Article
3
“Women in Politics: The Indian Experience” by Mridula Mishra, which was published in the Journal of
International Women’s Studies in 2002.

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15(3) of the Constitution. There are many other provisions in the Constitution which
lay stress on equality between men and women. Article 14 guarantees equality before law
and equal protection of law with in the territory of India. Art 15 prohibits
discrimination on the basis of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth. It is a guarantee
against every form of discrimination. According to article 15(3), nothing shall prevent
the state from making special provisions for theenefitt women and children. Article 16
guarantees equality of opportunity for all citizens in matter relating to employment or
appointment to any office under state. Secondly no citizen shall, on ground of religion,
race, cast, sex, decent, place of birth residence or any of them, be eligible for, or
discriminated against in respect of any employment or office under the state and strength of
workers, men and women, and the tender age of children are not abused and that citizen are
not forced by economic necessity to enter occupations unsuited for their age or strength.
Article 39 (a), states that the State shall direct its policy towards securing equally to
men and women the right to an adequate means of livelihood, and 39(d) enjoins the State
to direct its policy towards securing equal pay for equal work for both men and women.
Article 42 provides for securing just and humane conditions of work and for maternity relief
and Article 51(A) € refers to the fundamental duty of citizens to renounce practices

derogatory to the dignity of women. The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments have
provided reservation of 1/3 seats for women in panchayats and municipalities. Article
325 and 326 guarantee political equality, equal right to participate in political activity and
right to vote, respectively. While the latter has been accessed and enjoyed by large number
of women, the right to equal participation is still a distant dream. The lack of space for
participation in political bodies has resulted in their presence in meagre numbers in this
decision making bodies. Women’s are the world’s largest excluded group in political
arena. 21.9 % of the members of national parliament worldwide are women. Women
hold 16.0 % of the seats in Arab state parliaments and 21.8 % of the seats in Sub -
Saharan African nation’s parliament. In Americas women hold 26.6 %. On the other
hand in the developed nations of USA, France and Japan 18.3 %, 26.2 %, 8.1 %
respectively of the House of Representatives of Lower House of parliament are comprised
of women. In India women comprised only 11.4 % of National Parliament.4

4
The report “Women in Politics 2021” by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and UN Women.
https://www.unwomen.org/-/media/headquarters/attachments/sections/library/publications/2021/women-in-
politics-map-2021-en.pdf?la=en&vs=5128.

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Women In The Lok Sabha And Rajya Sabha

As of September 2021, women are underrepresented in both the Rajya Sabha (Council of
States) and the Lok Sabha (House of the People) in India.
In the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian parliament, there were a total of 238
members, out of which 29 were women.5 This means that women made up only about 12% of
the total membership.
In the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian parliament, there were a total of 543
members, out of which 78 were women.6 This means that women made up only about 14% of
the total membership.
It is worth noting that the representation of women in parliament has been increasing
gradually over the years, but it still falls far short of gender parity. The Indian government
has taken various steps to increase women’s political participation, such as reserving seats for
women in local government bodies, but more needs to be done to increase women’s
representation in higher-level decision-making bodies like the parliament.
Parliamentary union. India’s rank is one of the lowest in the region and falls below her
neighbours, Nepal ranked at 40, Afghanistan at 45, China at 71,

Women In Panchayati Raj Institution

The 73rd and 74th amendment of Indian Constitution have brought about a silent
revolution by the provisions related to 33% reservation for women in the institutions of local
self-government. They have brought a drastic transformation in India as far as
participation of women at the gross root level politics is concerned. Women in India are
much better represented in the panchayati raj institutions as compared to the parliament.
States like Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Rajasthan have reserved 50 per
cent seats for women in panchayats and Sikkim has reserved 40 per cent seats for women.
This indeed, makes a historic beginning for the effective participation of women in the
decision-making process at the grassroots level. The efforts and work of several women
representatives in
panchayats in Maharashtra, Gujarat and West Bengal have been widely acclaimed. Thus,
women are making significant gains in the political sphere where increased participation is
rapidly empowering women. However, women have not found an adequate representation in
the Lok Sabha. The percentage of elected women Lok Sabha members has never

5
September 2021 Report, Rajya Sabha, available at : https://rajyasabha.nic.in/rsnew/member_site/mplist.aspx.
6
September 2021 Report, Lok Sabha, available at : http://loksabhaph.nic.in/Members/AlphabeticalList.aspx.

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exceeded 12 per cent. The presence of women in the Upper House has been only slightly
higher overall, probably due to indirect elections and nomination of some women members.

CHAPTER 3: DETERMINANTS OF WOMEN’S PARTICIPATION IN

AN ELECTORAL CONTEST

Socio-economic factors, political empowerment, traditional gender roles, and social norms
can all have a significant impact on women’s participation in elections. Here are some ways
in which these factors can influence women’s political participation:

1. Education

Education is a key factor that can influence women’s political participation. Women
with higher levels of education are more likely to participate in politics, as they have
greater access to information, networks, and resources. Educated women are also
more likely to be aware of their rights and to have the confidence and skills to engage
in political activities.
Education is a critical factor that impacts women’s participation in electoral politics.
Education provides women with knowledge, skills, and confidence, making them
more aware of their rights and the importance of their voice in the political process.
Educated women are more likely to engage in political activities, including voting,
running for office, and advocating for policies that benefit their communities.

Firstly, education can help women develop critical thinking and analytical skills,
which are essential for effective political participation. Educated women are more
likely to engage in informed decision-making, evaluate political issues, and identify
solutions to social problems. This makes them better equipped to participate in
political discussions and contribute meaningfully to policy development.
Secondly, education can provide women with the necessary knowledge and skills to
navigate the political system. For example, educated women are more likely to
understand the procedures for registering to vote, casting ballots, and engaging with
elected officials. This knowledge can make them feel more confident in their ability to
participate in politics and have a voice in the decision-making process.

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 Thirdly, education can help to break down traditional gender roles and norms that
limit women’s political participation. Educated women are more likely to challenge
these norms and advocate for their rights and representation in the political process.
They are also more likely to participate in leadership and decision-making roles
within political parties and organizations, which can help to increase women’s
political representation and influence.
Moreover, education can also provide women with access to social networks and
resources that can support their political participation. For example, educated women
may have greater access to financial resources, transportation, and childcare, which
can enable them to participate in political activities. Education can also help women
build networks and alliances with other women and organizations, which can provide
them with the support and resources they need to engage in political activities.
Finally, education can increase women’s awareness of the importance of their
participation in the political process, and the impact that their participation can have
on their communities. Educated women are more likely to recognize the importance
of political participation in promoting social and economic development, and in
advancing gender equality and women’s rights. This awareness can motivate women
to become more involved in political activities and to seek opportunities to engage in
the political process.7
In conclusion, education is a critical factor that impacts women’s participation in
electoral politics. It can provide women with the knowledge, skills, and confidence
they need to engage in political activities, navigate the political system, challenge
traditional gender roles, and advocate for their rights and representation. Efforts to
promote women’s political participation must prioritize education as a key strategy
for empowering women and increasing their engagement in the political process.

2. Income

Income is another important factor that can influence women’s political participation.
Women with higher levels of income are more likely to participate in politics, as they
have greater access to resources such as money, transportation, and childcare. Low-

7
Torkington, M., & Gay, J. (2018). The Role of Education in Women’s Political Participation. The Open
University, available at: https://research.open.ac.uk/en/publications/the-role-of-education-in-womens-political-
participation.

15
income women may be more limited in their ability to participate in politics due to
financial constraints.
Income is an important factor that can influence women’s participation in electoral
politics. Women with higher incomes often have greater access to resources, such as
time, education, and social networks, which can enable them to participate more fully
in the political process. Additionally, women with higher incomes may have greater
visibility and influence in their communities, which can increase their chances of
being elected to political office.

Firstly, women with higher incomes often have greater access to education, which can
provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the political system
and engage in political activities. Education can also provide women with critical
thinking and analytical skills, which are essential for effective political participation.
Educated women are more likely to engage in informed decision-making, evaluate
political issues, and identify solutions to social problems. This makes them better
equipped to participate in political discussions and contribute meaningfully to policy
development.
Secondly, income can provide women with the resources necessary to engage in
political activities. For example, women with higher incomes may have greater access
to transportation, childcare, and other resources that can enable them to participate in
political events and activities. This can be especially important for women who have
caregiving responsibilities or who live in rural or remote areas, where access to
transportation and other resources may be limited.
Thirdly, income can increase women's visibility and influence in their communities,
which can increase their chances of being elected to political office. Women with
higher incomes may have greater social networks and may be more likely to be
involved in community organizations, which can increase their exposure to potential
supporters and voters. Additionally, women with higher incomes may be able to fund
their own political campaigns or may have access to financial resources that can
support their campaigns.
Moreover, income can also help to break down traditional gender roles and norms that
limit women's political participation. Women with higher incomes may have greater
economic independence and may be less reliant on traditional gender roles and norms

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 that limit their participation in politics. They may also be more likely to challenge
these norms and advocate for their rights and representation in the political process.
Finally, income can increase women's awareness of the importance of their
participation in the political process and the impact that their participation can have
on their communities. Women with higher incomes may be more aware of the social
and economic issues facing their communities and may be more motivated to engage
in political activities to address these issues. They may also be more aware of the
potential benefits of political participation, such as increased representation and
access to resources and services.8
In conclusion, income is an important factor that can influence women's participation
in electoral politics. Women with higher incomes often have greater access to
education, resources, social networks, and visibility, which can enable them to
participate more fully in the political process. Efforts to promote women's political
participation must address the economic barriers that limit women's access to these
resources and prioritize strategies that support women's economic empowerment.

3. Political Empowerment

Women’s political empowerment, such as having access to political networks and

resources, can have a significant impact on their political participation. Women who
are politically empowered are more likely to be aware of political opportunities and to
have the skills and confidence to engage in political activities

Political empowerment is a crucial factor that can impact women’s participation in

electoral politics. It refers to the ability of women to exercise their rights and have a
voice in the decision-making processes that affect their lives, including in the political
sphere. Political empowerment can take various forms, including legal frameworks,
institutional mechanisms, and cultural norms that support women’s participation in
politics.

Firstly, political empowerment can increase women’s knowledge and awareness of

their rights and the importance of their participation in the political process. This can
8
“Gender, Income, and Political Participation in the United States” by Janet M. Box-Steffensmeier and Steven
E. Schier, published in Politics & Gender, Vol. 1, No. 2 (2005), pp. 189-219.

17
motivate women to engage in political activities, including voting, running for office,
and advocating for policies that benefit their communities. Political empowerment can
also provide women with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the political
system and engage effectively in political activities. This can be especially important
for women who face social and cultural barriers to political participation, such as
discrimination or lack of access to resources.

Secondly, political empowerment can provide women with access to political

networks and resources that can support their participation in electoral politics. For
example, political parties, civil society organizations, and other political actors can
provide women with training, mentoring, and other support to enhance their political
skills and knowledge. These networks can also provide women with opportunities to
connect with other women and build alliances to promote their political interests.

Thirdly, political empowerment can promote gender equality and women’s

representation in political decision-making bodies. This can have significant positive
impacts on policy outcomes, as women are more likely to advocate for policies that
address the needs and priorities of women and other marginalized groups. Women’s
representation can also challenge traditional gender roles and norms that limit
women’s participation in politics and broader society.

Moreover, political empowerment can help to increase women’s leadership roles and
visibility in politics. This can serve as a positive example for other women and inspire
them to engage in political activities themselves. Women’s leadership can also
contribute to a more diverse and inclusive political environment, which can promote
more effective and responsive policymaking.

Finally, political empowerment can have broader social and economic impacts
beyond the political sphere. Women’s participation in politics can help to promote
social and economic development, reduce poverty, and enhance gender equality. It
can also contribute to better health outcomes, improved education, and increased
access to resources and services for women and their families.

18
 In conclusion, political empowerment is a crucial factor that impacts women’s
participation in electoral politics. It can provide women with the knowledge, skills,
resources, and networks necessary to engage in effective political activities and
increase their representation and leadership roles. Political empowerment can also
have broader social and economic impacts, promoting gender equality and
contributing to sustainable development. Efforts to promote women’s political
empowerment must address the various social, cultural, and economic barriers that
limit women’s access to political power and prioritize strategies that support women’s
empowerment and representation.

4. Traditional Gender Roles

Traditional gender roles can limit women’s political participation, as they may be
expected to prioritize their family and household responsibilities over political
activities. Women may also face cultural and social barriers that prevent them from
engaging in political activities, such as restrictions on mobility or social norms that
discourage women from participating in public life.
Traditional gender roles have a significant impact on women’s participation in
electoral politics. These roles are deeply embedded in cultural norms and practices
and often reinforce patriarchal attitudes that position women as inferior to men. In
many societies, women are expected to prioritize domestic responsibilities over
political involvement, leading to a lack of representation of women in political
leadership.

One of the ways traditional gender roles affect women’s participation in electoral
politics is through their impact on women’s education. Women’s education is often
devalued compared to men’s, leading to lower levels of educational attainment. This
can limit women’s political knowledge and awareness, making it more difficult for
them to engage meaningfully in political discussions and campaigns. Furthermore,
women’s lack of education can lead to a lack of confidence and self-esteem, which
can further discourage their participation in electoral politics.

19
 Another way in which traditional gender roles affect women’s participation in
electoral politics is through their impact on women’s economic status. Women are
often relegated to lower-paid, lower-status jobs, making it more difficult for them to
access the financial resources necessary to engage in political campaigns. Women’s
financial dependence on men can also make it difficult for them to enter politics, as
they may not have the support or resources necessary to participate effectively.

Furthermore, traditional gender roles also limit women’s ability to network and build
relationships with other political actors, as women are often excluded from male-
dominated political spaces. This can limit women’s access to information and
resources, making it more difficult for them to navigate the political landscape and
build the support necessary to run for office.

Additionally, traditional gender roles can lead to discriminatory attitudes and

behaviors towards women in political campaigns. Women may face gender-based
stereotypes and harassment that can discourage them from running for office. This
can also create a hostile environment for women in political leadership, making it
more difficult for them to effectively govern.9

In order to address the impact of traditional gender roles on women’s participation in

electoral politics, it is important to promote gender equality and challenge patriarchal
attitudes and norms. This can involve targeted interventions, such as promoting
women’s education and economic empowerment, as well as efforts to increase
women’s political representation and participation. It is also important to address
discriminatory attitudes and behaviors towards women in political campaigns, and
create supportive political environments that enable women to fully participate in
political decision-making. By addressing the impact of traditional gender roles on
women’s participation in electoral politics, we can create more inclusive and
representative political systems that better reflect the needs and perspectives of all
members of society.

5. Social Norms

9
“Women in Politics: Gender, Power, and Development” by Mariz Tadros (2019)

20
 Social norms and attitudes towards women’s participation in politics can also
influence women’s political engagement. In some societies, women may be viewed as
less competent or less qualified than men to participate in politics. Women may also
face harassment or discrimination when they try to participate in politics, which can
discourage them from continuing to engage in political activities.
Social norms play a significant role in shaping women’s participation in electoral
politics. Social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern behavior
within a society or community. These norms can be deeply ingrained in cultural
beliefs and practices, and can have a powerful impact on individual decision-making.
In many societies, social norms reinforce gender inequalities and limit women’s
political agency, leading to a lack of representation of women in political leadership.
One way in which social norms affect women’s participation in electoral politics is
through their impact on women’s political knowledge and awareness. Women may be
discouraged from seeking political information and engaging in political discussions,
as they may be perceived as going against gender norms that prioritize domestic
responsibilities over political involvement. As a result, women may have less
knowledge about the political process and may not feel confident in their ability to
participate effectively in electoral politics.

Social norms can also affect women’s decision-making regarding running for political
office. Women may feel discouraged from running for office due to gendered
expectations and stereotypes that position women as lacking in leadership qualities or
as unsuited for political leadership. Women may also face discrimination and
harassment in political campaigns, which can further discourage their participation in
electoral politics.10

Moreover, social norms can limit women’s access to political networks and resources.
Women may be excluded from male-dominated political spaces, making it more
difficult for them to build relationships with other political actors and access
information and resources necessary for political campaigns. This can also limit their
opportunities for mentorship and political education, which can be critical for political
leadership development.
10
United Nations Development Programme. (2018). Women’s Political Participation: A Framework for Analysis
and Action, available at : https://www.undp.org/content/dam/undp/library/gender/Women%27s%20Political
%20Participation.pdf.

21
 To address the impact of social norms on women’s participation in electoral politics,
it is important to promote gender equality and challenge patriarchal attitudes and
norms. This can involve targeted interventions, such as promoting women’s political
education and leadership development, as well as efforts to increase women’s political
representation and participation. It is also important to address discriminatory
attitudes and behaviors towards women in political campaigns and create supportive
political environments that enable women to fully participate in political decision-
making.

In conclusion, social norms play a significant role in shaping women’s participation in

electoral politics. These norms can limit women’s political knowledge and awareness,
discourage women from running for office, and restrict women’s access to political
networks and resources. Addressing the impact of social norms on women’s political
participation is crucial for promoting gender equality and building more inclusive and
representative political systems.

Social norms play a significant role in shaping women’s participation in electoral

politics. These norms are the unwritten rules that govern behavior within a society and
often reinforce traditional gender roles and stereotypes. In many societies, social
norms dictate that women should prioritize their domestic roles over their
involvement in politics, which can limit their participation in electoral politics.11

ANALYSIS AND CONCLUSION

In conclusion, women’s participation in elections and electoral politics is a complex and

multifaceted phenomenon that is shaped by a range of socio-economic and cultural factors.
The evidence suggests that women’s education, income, and political empowerment are all
important determinants of their participation in the political process. Moreover, traditional
gender roles and social norms play a significant role in shaping women’s political behavior,
particularly in societies where women’s political participation is not widely accepted or
where patriarchal structures remain strong.
11
International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance. (2020). Women’s Political Empowerment:
Knowledge Products. https://www.idea.int/knowledge/womens-political-empowerment.

22
Gender based violence, Political party affiliation, Solidarity between representatives,
Administrative training, Gender stereotyping, Economic barriers, Personal and professional
life balance can also be one of the other factors that influence the participation of women in
electoral politics.
It is clear that efforts to increase women's participation in electoral politics must take Into
account the various factors that influence their decision-making. This may involve targeted
interventions aimed at improving women’s access to education and economic opportunities,
as well as efforts to challenge and change traditional gender roles and social norms that
restrict women’s political agency.
At the same time, it is important to recognize that women’s political participation is not a
monolithic phenomenon and that different women may be motivated by different factors.
Therefore, efforts to increase women’s participation in electoral politics must be tailored to
the specific needs and circumstances of different groups of women.

Furthermore, research has shown that when women are represented in political decision-
making, there are positive impacts on policy outcomes, including increased investments in
education, health, and social welfare. Thus, increasing women’s political participation can
lead to more equitable and effective governance.

It is also important to note that increasing women’s participation in politics is not just a
matter of individual choice, but also of systemic change. This requires addressing systemic
barriers, such as discrimination and biases against women, and creating inclusive and
supportive political environments that encourage and enable women to participate fully.

Today, even the best of our female parliamentarians feel sidelined and powerless
within their respective parties. The few women in leadership positions have not been
able to encourage the entry of greater numbers of women in electoral and party politics, and
are an ineffective minority within their own respective political groupings. Therefore, it is
urgently required that we have to take special measures to enhance
women's political participation in ways that help them influence decision-making at all
levels of our society and polity. Our democracy seriously flawed if it fails to yield
adequate space to women for their political empowerment.

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Overall, increasing women’s participation in electoral politics is not only a matter of
democratic principle but also a strategic imperative for building more inclusive and
representative political systems. By creating more opportunities for women to participate in
politics, we can help to ensure that the voices and perspectives of women are heard and that
policies and programs are designed to meet the needs of all members of society.

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

Women’s participation in elections is a crucial issue that requires attention from policymakers
and civil society organizations. By addressing the factors that contribute to women’s
participation in elections and by promoting gender equality, we can ensure that women are
able to participate fully in the political process. This will not only benefit women but will
also lead to a more democratic and equitable society. Following can be some of the
recommendations to be considered by the policymakers to increase women participation in
elections :-

Women with higher levels of education tend to be more politically engaged and informed.
Therefore, efforts should be made to increase access to education for women, particularly in
developing countries where education for girls is still limited.

Women who are financially independent are more likely to participate in elections and
electoral politics. Therefore, there is a need to promote economic empowerment of women by
providing equal opportunities in the workforce and improving access to credit and other
financial services.

There is a need to increase the representation of women in political decision-making bodies,

such as parliaments and local councils, and provide them with leadership opportunities.

There is a need to challenge these roles and promote gender equality by educating
communities on the benefits of women’s political participation.

There is a need to challenge negative attitudes towards women’s political participation and
promote positive role models of women in leadership positions.

Media representation of women in politics is also an important factor that can influence
women’s participation in elections and electoral politics. Therefore, there is a need to promote
positive media representation of women in politics and increase their visibility.

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Women may also be more likely to participate in elections and electoral politics if they have
access to support networks and resources, such as mentorship programs, training, and
financial support. Therefore, there is a need to provide these resources to women who are
interested in politics.

The legal and institutional framework also plays a critical role in promoting women’s
participation in elections and electoral politics. Therefore, there is a need to ensure that laws
and policies are gender-sensitive and provide equal opportunities for women in the political
sphere. This can include measures such as quotas or affirmative action programs to increase
the representation of women in politics.

The State should develop a system of incentives for countries that work towards narrowing
the gender gap in education, health and employment.

Clear guidelines for modalities and implementation of affirmative measures that lead to
empowering women and creating their ability to critically engage with the state and the
society for a social change and gender equality should be developed.

Research, documentation and dissemination of successful experiences in the world is needed

to promote women’s participation in politics and development.

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