
The global average for women’s representation in parliaments was 24 per cent in January 2019. Political parties are identified as responsible for women’s underrepresentation, given their role as the main gatekeepers of elected decision-making positions in most countries.
This factsheet illustrates the link of gender in political parties’ programmes and operational policies, processes and practices. It highlights the approach for institutionalizing gender equality in the conceptualization, development and implementation of a party’s strategic plan.

Contents
1. Introduction
2. Why gender mainstreaming within political parties?
3. Developing a gender-responsive strategic plan for a political party
4. Conclusion
5. References