In many countries,
political parties have supported women candidates in their electoral campaigns
to increase their chances of getting elected. Training and mentoring
initiatives for women candidates are popular measures to enhance their skills
in campaigning, fundraising, media management and public speaking, among other
issues. Allocating adequate resources and funding for these activities is key
to their effectiveness and sustainability. For this reason, some political
parties have created special funds for training initiatives addressed to women
candidates.[1]
Example: In Australia, the Labor Party established a mentoring
program for first-time candidates, who are paired with more experienced
politicians, through its own EMILY’s List.[2]
Example: In the United Kingdom, the Conservative Party launched the
initiative Women2Win, which played an active role in recruiting new women
members and providing them with training and mentoring.[3]
Example: In El Salvador, women activists from different parties have
joined together to form a multi-party institute that provides training to
women. Participants can replicate the training for other party members,
enhancing their value to their parties.[4]
Example: In Mexico, the PAN organizes seminars and workshops for
women candidates, addressing various topics such as motivation, teamwork and
attitude. These workshops were mainly addressed to women interested in
campaigning or willing to become campaign coordinators.[5]
[2] UNDP and NDI (2012): op.
cit., p. 35.
[3] UNDP and NDI (2012): op.
cit., p. 35.
[4] UNDP and NDI (2012): op.
cit., p. 32.
[5] UNDP and NDI (2012):
op. cit., p. 32.
