In one of the poorest countries in Europe, Albanian women are struggling to challenge the customs which restrain them.
WOMANKIND's Women's Leadership Programme in Albania is a five year programme which aims to support more women to take part in local and national politics. As well as directly supporting women leaders, it also works with existing parliamentarians, the media and a coalition of women and youth human rights CBOs and NGOs.
Making A Difference
Our programme has already seen significant practical results:
- On 20 November 2008, the Albanian parliament passed a revised electoral code, which builds on the July Gender Equality Law, which includes a 30 per cent quota of women in all legislative, executive, and judicial bodies. This is a major triumph for WOMANKIND - with funding from the Department for International Development, we supported our partners in drafting the law and to lobby successfully in-country and at the EU.
- The July 2005 parliamentary elections saw a 245% increase in the number of female candidates, and a 15% increase in the number of women elected to parliament
- Women's confidence to stand as candidates in an often hostile environment is growing. They speak of an increased sense of solidarity and say they have enjoyed the opportunity to learn from one another
- Women's groups have formed a coalition and have lobbied the Albanian government for electoral reform measures, such as affirmative action. A new electoral code was passed on 20 November 2008 which requires 30% of positions in the legislative, judiciary, executive and public institutions to be held by women. They are now lobbying for the implementation of this law and a proportional representation system
