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 5 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’s human rights NGOs.
Making A Difference
Our programme has already seen significant practical results:
- 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 are lobbying the Albanian government for electoral reform measures, such as affirmative action (eg a quota for women parliamentarians) and a proportional representation system
