Author:- sanskriti bhatiya, a Student of the alliance school of law
in vital component of social justice and democratic governance is women’s involvement in politics. Though there has been progress in the last century, women are still underrepresented in global political institutions. This article looks at the legislative frameworks that support gender equality in politics and the ongoing obstacles that prevent women from participating fully.
Abstract : Women have traditionally been marginalised in political and decision-making capacities. Women gained the ability to vote and run for office in many nations during the suffrage movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which was a major turning point in history. But social and legal constraints kept limiting their political participation.
LEGAL JARGON
The CEDAW stands for the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.
CEDAW, which was ratified by the UN General Assembly in 1979, is frequently referred to as an international bill of rights for women. States are expressly urged by Article 7 of CEDAW to end discrimination against women in public and political life as well as to protect women’s voting rights, candidatures for public office, and participation in governmental and non-governmental organisations Adopted in 1995 during the Fourth World Conference on Women, the Beijing Platform for Action lays out specific goals and actions to promote women’s growth. A special section on women in leadership and decision-making is included.
CASE LAWS
Balakrishna Pillai v. V. S. Achuthanandan (1993)
In brief: The Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, which provided seats for women in local government organisations (panchayats), was being challenged in this case.
Result: In affirming that affirmative action policies were required to advance gender equality in political representation, the Supreme Court of India maintained the reservations.
CONCULSION
Women’s political rights have advanced greatly as a result of case laws from many different jurisdictions. The significance of legislative frameworks that support gender equality and combat discriminatory behaviours is highlighted by these court rulings. Going forward, it will take ongoing legal activism and reform to guarantee that women may engage completely and effectively in global political processes.
FAQ
1 What obstacles exist for women who want to pursue careers in politics?
ANSWER The following obstacles prevent women from participating in politics:
Sociocultural Norms: Stereotypes and conventional gender norms can deter women from entering the political sphere.
Economic Barriers: It might be difficult for women to get the substantial financial resources needed to run for office.
Institutional Barriers: Women’s possibilities and support may be restricted by political networks and parties that are dominated by men.
Violence and Harassment: Women are frequently the targets of greater levels of violence, harassment, and scrutiny in politics, which can discourage them from taking part.
