Women in Parliament: Beyond Numbers
Summary
This publication covers women’s access to the legislature in three steps. First, it looks into the obstacles women confront when entering parliament, be they political, socio-economic or ideological and psychological. Second, it presents solutions to overcome these obstacles, such as changing electoral systems and introducing quotas. Third, it details strategies for women to influence politics once they are elected to parliament, an institution which is traditionally male-dominated.
The original Handbook, published in 1998, was produced as part of International IDEA’s work on women and political participation. Since its release, the picture regarding women’s political participation has slowly changed. Overall, the past decade has seen gradual progress with regard to women’s presence in national parliaments. This second edition incorporates relevant global changes, presenting new and updated case studies.
Citation
Ballington, Julie, and Azza Karam. Women in Parliament: Beyond Numbers. International IDEA, 2005.
Explore More
Women, Peace, and Security Shadow Report to Congress: What Was Built, What…
WPS Index 2025/26