Statement on women and girls in politics: Representation, promotion, financing, protection

The Gender Alliance for Development Center has monitored women and girls’ participation in Albanian politics and particularly in the May 14, 2023 local elections.

Following our assessment, we identified several important concerning issues which remain unaddressed by political parties.

Firstly, the issue of women’s financing as party members or election candidates is a fundamental challenge for gender equality in politics.

Even though the law provides for financial assistance for political parties, there is a noticeable lack of clarity and transparency in the criteria and procedures for the use of funds in a way that encourages women’s active participation.

Secondly, sexism and misogyny in politics are ongoing problems that impede women’s advancement and engagement.

Women and girls who decide to enter the political arena face discrimination and unnecessary criticism based only on their gender.

We ask political parties to take concrete measures to address these indecent behaviours and ensure an equal and fair political environment for all their members.

The Gender Alliance for Development Center urges all Albanian political parties to actively commit to solving these issues and to ensure an equal participation of women and girls in politics.

To learn more please read the following statement, and we also encourage you to read the report: "Arritja e Barazisë Gjinore në Financimin e Partive Politike në Shqipëri" https://gadc.org.al/.../Barazia%20Gjinore%20ne...

English version: Achieving Gender Equality in Political Party Financing in Albania https://gadc.org.al/.../Gender%20equality%20in...

Thank you for the support Westminster Foundation for Democracy and British Embassy in Tirana.