Lack of job security and inadequate education continue to pose challenges to women from joining elective offices, according to Election Commission of Bhutan’s survey. The findings were discussed during the first electoral forum on Women in Politics in Thimphu, today.
The percentage of women parliamentarians has decreased from 14 percent in 2008 to 8 percent in 2013. Currently, there are only six women parliamentarians in the parliament.
The National commission of Women and Children’s Executive Director, Kunzang Lhamu said there is a need to review electoral system and processes to enhance women’s participation. “Enhance female education and graduation rates and adopting appropriate affirmative action to enhance women’s participation in politics.”
Department of Civic and Electoral Training of ECB’s Officiating Director, Chhimi Dorji said the challenges women face is mostly education and cultural.
The electoral forum was to discuss electoral matters, organize post-election review and consultations and gather views on challenges that need to be solved.
