Gender equality and women’s political participation remain major issues in many countries around the world, including the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite timid progress, it is crucial to continue efforts to guarantee equitable representation of women in decision-making bodies.
During a mid-term evaluation session of the “Mobilization of the electorate for a democratic, credible, inclusive and peaceful electoral process Horizon 2023” project, several observations were made concerning the obstacles encountered by women in politics. The lack of equitable rights and political rules hinders their ability to fully engage in the management of public affairs. Therefore, concrete actions and legal reforms are necessary to promote women’s political participation.
The project, financed by the Belgian Government through 11.11.11. & International Protection, aims in particular to support and train 1,000 women in 6 provinces of the DRC to prepare them for the 2028 elections. Congolese civil society organizations and international partners are mobilizing to promote the political participation of women and advance gender equality.
Despite the efforts made, global statistics on the representation of women in politics remain worrying. The Belgian ambassador to the DRC highlights the slow implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women and calls for concerted action to strengthen the female presence in political spheres.
In the DRC, the rate of women in the National Assembly has increased slightly, but it is essential to continue to promote gender equality at all levels of society. Bilateral cooperation between Belgium and the DRC integrates the gender approach as a priority, aiming to empower Congolese women politically, socially and economically.
It is essential to raise awareness and involve elected and non-elected women in the political process to build a more inclusive and egalitarian society. Initiatives such as the project “Mobilization of the electorate for a democratic, transparent, inclusive and peaceful electoral process, by 2023” contribute to strengthening the participation of women in Congolese political life and to promoting a more egalitarian society for all.
Together, it is possible to transform obstacles into opportunities, and build a future where women fully occupy their place in the political life and governance of their country.