Wednesday, March 10, 2021
Barriers to womenâs political participation have long existed in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Conflict, gender-based violence, disempowerment, and restrictive laws all represent continued challenges that women face throughout the region. Pro-democracy protests have been sweeping across MENA for over a decade, leaving the countries of the region with no choice but to re-evaluate the place of women in their societies. Women who were at the forefront of demonstrations also deserved to be at the forefront of politics. Across the MENA region, the National Democratic Institute (NDI) implements programs to address these challenges and the gender imbalances prevalent throughout society by advancing womenâs rights and empowering women to participate in politics. In honor of Womenâs History Month, NDI is highlighting the achievements of women and celebrating the contributions they have made to history, culture, and society.Â