Rabat declaration adopted to boost women’s leadership in African electoral processes

The second seminar-dialogue on elections and democracy in Africa, held Tuesday in Rabat by the African Union Commission and the Policy Center for the New South, concluded with the unanimous adoption of the Rabat Declaration for Women’s Leadership in African Electoral Processes.

The declaration, read by Patience Chiradza, Director of Governance and Conflict Prevention at the AU Commission, calls for concrete, immediate actions to ensure full inclusion of women—especially young women—in political realm across the continent.

Key recommendations include the adoption and enforcement of gender parity laws, elimination of legal and customary barriers to women’s political participation, and creation of a supportive socio-cultural environment through awareness campaigns and civic education.

Participants at this seminar, themed “Inclusive governance: Strengthening women’s leadership in electoral and democratic processes in Africa”, emphasized the need to strengthen institutional support for women candidates through financial and technical assistance, mentorship, leadership training, and gender-sensitive electoral processes. They also urged governments to guarantee fair representation of women at all levels of governance and integrate gender perspectives in policymaking.

The declaration further calls for transparent electoral systems with active involvement from civil society and regional bodies, and encourages intergenerational dialogue to foster young women’s engagement in decision-making.

Described as a roadmap for inclusive, equitable, and sustainable governance, the declaration is to be widely promoted and implemented by AU member states.

This seminar was part of the 4th African Election Observers Training Cycle and brought together AU officials, civil society, media professionals, and experts to exchange best practices for inclusive governance.