Geneva, Oct. 23 (BNA): Jamal Mohamed Fakhro, First Deputy Chairman of the Shura Council, delivered a speech at the 151st Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva.

Fakhro emphasised the Women’s Leadership Initiative as a crucial investment in democracy that advances gender equality and benefits all sectors of society. He noted that the initiative aligns with the IPU’s strategic priorities on gender equality and youth participation.

He said that the initiative forms part of the Women and Youth Democratic Engagement (WYDE) project, funded by the European Union and implemented by the IPU in partnership with UN Women, the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), and United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG).

Fakhro highlighted the project’s focus on supporting women’s participation in parliaments, addressing social norms that limit their leadership, preventing violence against women in politics, and fostering collaboration among MPs, women’s and youth organisations, and civil society. The project has facilitated intergenerational dialogues on challenges such as harmful social norms and violence targeting women in politics.

He added that the project is currently developing practical tools, including guidance and training, to help parliaments promote diversity and counteract violence. Fakhro called for IPU members to continue their support for this important work for democracy and equality.

A.S, S.E