United Nations and European Union officials have warned that discriminatory social norms, unequal power relations and a rise in gender‑based violence continue to undermine women’s participation in political leadership across Africa.
Despite measurable progress in women’s representation and the adoption of laws promoting gender equality, the officials said that structural barriers remain entrenched in many African societies.
Social expectations and entrenched power dynamics often exclude women from decision‑making roles, limiting their influence on policy and governance.
At the same time, the growing incidence of gender‑based violence creates a hostile environment that discourages women from seeking or holding public office.
The warnings underscore the need for sustained efforts to address both legal frameworks and the cultural attitudes that impede women’s full political participation on the continent.
<small>Source: AllAfrica — read the original story there.</small>
