Women like men have a critical role to play in shaping, uplifting and bringing about tremendous changes in the society and the world in general. Active participation in politics is one of the best ways to achieve this objective. Women have been underrepresented in politics for too long. It’s time for that to change. There are several reasons women should join politics, and why their participation is essential for a healthy democracy
First, having more women in politics can lead to greater representation of women’s interests. Currently, women are underrepresented in politics at all levels, from local government to national offices. This means that women’s voices and perspectives are not being heard and that their issues are not being addressed as effectively as they should. Women’s political representation is critical to ensuring that women’s concerns are taken into account in policy making, and that laws and regulations reflect the diverse experiences of women.
Second, women’s political participation can help to break down gender stereotypes and address gender-based discrimination. When women join politics, they challenge the notion that politics is a “man’s world” and demonstrate that women are just as capable of leadership and decision-making as men. By participating in politics, women can help to create a more equal and just society, where women are valued and respected as equal citizens.
Third, women’s political participation can also help to bring about a more peaceful and stable world. Studies have shown that countries with greater political representation for women tend to have lower levels of conflict and greater stability. Women’s political leadership can also help to advance human rights and social justice, and promote peace and security.
The likes of Jacinda Ardern of New Zealand, whose superlative handling of Covid-19 and relentless campaign on climate change earned her accolades and commendations worldwide, shows that like men women can do it better when given the chance in politics. In a 2021 interview with CNN, she reflected on her rise to power, saying: “It was not so long ago that being a woman in politics was a very isolating experience.”
Samia Suluhu Hassan, who was sworn in as the first female President of Tanzania after the death of John Magafulli, has done a great job to put the brakes on a fast descent into total authoritarianism in the country alongside other fascinating achievements. They serve as pacesetters to other women to take the bold step and join politics and political activities in order to contribute towards both national and global development.
In conclusion, there are many compelling reasons why women should join politics. Women bring a unique perspective to the political arena, their political representation is critical to ensuring that women’s concerns are heard, their participation can help to break down gender stereotypes and promote equality, and their leadership can help to bring about a more peaceful and stable world. Women’s political participation is essential for a healthy democracy, and it’s time for more women to step up and take their place in the political arena.
Hajara Abdullahi,
Level 200,
Dept of Mass Communication,
Bayero University, Kano
