It is no longer news that the advent of digitalization has brought about a rapid change in economic and socio-political activities of world nations. It is also a fact that there has been an intensive push among women to assume positions of leadership in different spheres of influence. Shattering glass ceilings has not been an easy task; however, as women press for progress in the achievement of gender equality globally, the objective to not only have a quota system, but seize suitable leadership positions from which their voices can be heard has become paramount. A study conducted by the World Economic Forum found women in 63 out of 142 nations had served as the head of state or government in the 50 years leading up to 2014. As at February 2018, only a handful of women make the list of world leaders. Those women include H.E. Angela Merkel, the Chancellor…

By Joshua K. Ogbonna. Politics has never been a strong point for women in particular regions or countries, but with democracy taking the center stage in most elective processes across the globe, a lot of women are coming into the picture and this was at its peak in 2017. The global movement for gender equity is meant to bring about social change leading to increased political participation by women. Legislating equality does not instantly guarantee a society’s acceptance of it. In Africa, Asia, and the Middle-east the focus of the women folk has largely been relegated to household upkeep but that narrative is being corrected by countries promulgating several women’s bill of rights and the active involvement in the political process – seeking elective positions and being voted for. According to a Chinese proverb, “Women hold up half the sky” and that has become internationally adopted to affirm women’s equal…

By: Miracle Nwankwo Just like other parts of the world, Asia is not devoid of the dramas that have to do with the participation of women in political activities and governance. Although Asia has enjoyed a high record of women in positions of power both in the past and present, the clogged wheels of incompetence (or so we are made to believe) remains a recurring challenge considering the almost abrupt displacement of some of these seemingly powerful women. Dating back from 1960 when Sirimavo Bandaranaike became the first female head of government in Sri Lanka and Indira Gandhi, who was the first female prime minister of India, Asian women have left no stone unturned in the fight for political positions Despite this fact, it is discouraging to note that the early start of women participation in politics did not particularly change the narrative as Asia’s political scene is still very…

By: Ene Ikpebe ‘Diversity and inclusion,’ a phrase that has increased in popularity over the last few years. The governments of the west, are replete with committees on matters of diversity, and consultants are being hired to create a favorable image for politicians as regards their stance on inclusion. Unfortunately, it is yet to rise to the top of the priority list for the governments of developing nations. Interestingly, some of the most respected international organizations which developing countries interact with think that diversity and inclusion, specifically in terms of gender equality, should be of utmost concern. They believe it is a prerequisite for development. In a 2015 interview with Nafis Sadiq, the Special Adviser to the United Nations Secretary-General, she expressed her desire to see more women in leadership positions, to have more political participation from women in general, and to hear the voices of women who…

By: Eruke Ojuederie Following Theresa May’s victory at the polls on June 8, the controversies surrounding her Brexit move have sparked up a fresh debate. The British Prime Minister has taken steps towards assuring European Union citizens living in Britain, that their activities will not be disrupted when the move is completed. This has not been much of an assurance as EU citizens are yet to determine what the future holds for them. According to the exit plan, those who meet the five-year rule would be able to apply for the “settled” status. This is assumed to be more like a temporary citizenship which allows them to live and work in Britain. Since Theresa May moved for Britain’s exit from the European Union, skeptics have questioned her style of governance and in fact the role of women in the political scene. Despite recent moves by women across regions towards participating…