Gender equality and women’s empowerment are not only human rights, but are also imperative for achieving inclusive, equitable and sustainable development. Women’s political participation is central to this goal. When political processes are more inclusive, democracy is strengthened.

As part of its mandate, UNDP promotes women’s participation in political processes and institutions and strengthens women’s agency, voice and participation in all aspects of the organization’s work. UNDP also engages in advocacy and supports policy and legal reforms to accelerate the equal participation of women, including young women and minorities, in decision-making across all branches of the state. This work is integral to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 16, which aims to ensure peace, justice and strong institutions through inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels.

UNDP’s work to advance women’s equal participation and decision-making in political processes and institutions is reflected in its approach to parliamentary development, electoral cycle support, constitution-making processes and peacebuilding.