IFES held an event at Connecticut’s Old State House that explored the importance of women’s participation in politics, the hurdles women find in the political process and how to overcome them.

During the panel discussion, the participants talked about the gaps that currently exist between men and women in politics, the various reasons for them—from culture and tradition to lack of help with childrearing, and the societal ramifications of lacking women in politics. They also discussed the benefits of different ways to overcome these limitations including establishing quotas for women in government and tactics that can be used to overcome stigmas. 

3:00 – 4:15 PM
Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Connecticut’s Old State House
800 Main Street, Hartford, CT 06103

Women are underrepresented in most political systems both as leaders and voters. This panel presentation will profile efforts in the United States and internationally to promote a greater awareness of obstacles and initiatives to increase the participation of women in the democratic process and discuss programs that contribute to greater gender equality.

Moderated by

The Honorable Barbara B. Kennelly
Director, IFES Board of Directors 

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Featuring remarks from 

Felicity Harley
Executive Director of World Affairs Council 

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K. Riva Levinson
Managing Director of KRL International 

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Zeinab Abdelkarim
IFES Regional Director of Middle East and North Africa 

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Samia Mahgoub
IFES Chief of Party (Burundi) 

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