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Gender and Politics in Africa: Navigating Power, Participation, and Policy

Type
Closed Panel
Language
English
Description

This panel brings together scholars researching the intersection of gender and politics across Africa, focusing on the multifaceted roles of women in governance, social movements, and institutional power. Through a blend of case studies, empirical research, and feminist theoretical perspectives, the panel explores how African women navigate and influence political landscapes marked by historic and systemic inequalities.

The first presentation, The Role of Women in Peace-building and Post-Conflict Reconstruction Processes in African Nations, highlights women's vital contributions in post-conflict settings, particularly in Sierra Leone and Rwanda. This study examines how women have not only contributed to peace-building but also influenced long-term societal reconstruction, despite being marginalized in formal political negotiations.

The second paper, Gender and the Politics of Identity: Understanding the Roles of Government in Nigeria and Ghana provides insights into how national policies in Nigeria and Ghana impact women’s rights and gender-based inequalities. The research assesses the effectiveness of international agreements, such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and how identity factors shape women’s socio-economic status.

The third presentation focuses on the impact of gender equity on political engagement and governance in Tanzania and Nigeria. The paper focues on the influence of women in formal political roles. Through comparative case studies, this research highlights how female leaders address issues like reproductive health and economic empowerment, reshaping governance and policy outcomes in these countries.

The fourth paper, Young Women’s Resistance and Participation in the Gen Z Protests in Kenya, captures the role of young women in Kenya’s recent resistance movements. This study explores how social media has empowered young women to challenge autocratic governance, positioning their activism as a critical aspect of political engagement.

The fifth paper presentation on the panel, Wealthy Men Make Presidents: The Gendered Costs of Political Power, examines the intersection of wealth, gender, and political influence. By revealing how economic disparities and male-dominated networks shape electoral opportunities, this research sheds light on the barriers women face in Nigerian electoral politics.

With scholars from different parts of the world, these presentations provide a comprehensive view of gender dynamics in African politics, offering diverse perspectives on the paths toward gender equity and effective political representation across the continent.

Onsite Presentation Language
Same as proposal language
Panel ID
PL-7966