The empowerment and increased participation of women in politics have been long-standing goals to achieve a more inclusive and equitable society. On the 24th of July 2023, a pivotal training workshop took place in Calabar powered by Women Situation Room Nigeria WSRN , focusing on the assessment of violence against women and women’s participation in the 2023 General Elections. This event brought together various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, government representatives, women’s rights activists, and women’s organizations. Among the key participants was The Cross River Movement (TCRM), a prominent organization dedicated to promoting good governance in Cross River State.
Empowering Women and Providing Civic Education:
At the heart of the discussions during the training workshop was the recognition that empowering women financially and providing them with civic education is critical to increasing their political participation. TCRM actively contributed to this discourse, emphasizing the need to create opportunities for women to gain economic independence and access to resources. The organization pledged its support in implementing programs that offer financial literacy training, micro-financing, and entrepreneurship initiatives targeted at women in both urban and rural areas of the state.
Creating a Safe Space for Women in Politics:
The prevalence of violence against women in politics remains a significant barrier to women’s full engagement in the political process. TCRM voiced its concern and commitment to ensuring a safe political space for women by collaborating with other stakeholders to develop and implement strategies that combat harassment, intimidation, and discrimination. TCRM pledged to work towards sensitizing communities about the importance of creating an inclusive political environment, free from any form of violence or prejudice.
Encouraging Youth Engagement in Politics:
Recognizing that the representation of women in politics can be enhanced by encouraging youth engagement, TCRM reaffirmed its commitment to catching women at a young age and inspiring them to actively participate in politics. The organization emphasized the importance of mentorship programs, leadership training, and educational campaigns aimed at motivating young women to pursue political careers and civic responsibilities.
Advocating for Electronic Voting:
TCRM actively engaged in the discussions surrounding the transition from manual voting to electronic voting systems. The organization believes that the adoption of electronic voting methods would not only enhance the efficiency of the electoral process but also reduce the potential for violence and coercion at polling stations. TCRM pledged to advocate for the implementation of electronic voting mechanisms through partnerships with relevant government institutions and electoral bodies.
The Role of Social Media in Supporting Women:
Understanding the influence of social media in modern-day communication, TCRM stressed the significance of women actively engaging on social media platforms to garner support, amplify their voices, and advocate for their rights. The organization pledged to provide training and guidance on leveraging social media effectively to empower women in politics and champion gender equality causes.
Special Provisions for Women in the Field:
To address the unique challenges faced by women when engaging in political activities, TCRM expressed its commitment to advocating for special provisions and support to ensure their safety and equal opportunities while on the field. This included partnering with law enforcement agencies to ensure the security of female politicians during campaigns and political events.
In Conclusion: The training workshop on assessing violence against women and women’s participation in the 2023 General Elections was a momentous occasion for all stakeholders involved, including The Cross River Movement (TCRM). As a leading organization in promoting good governance in Cross River State, TCRM demonstrated its unwavering commitment to promoting gender equality, empowering women, and advocating for their rights in the political sphere. By actively participating in the discussions and pledging its support, TCRM exemplified its dedication to creating an inclusive and gender-equal political landscape in the state.
Moving forward, the collaboration and commitment displayed during the workshop serve as a powerful catalyst for change. With stakeholders like TCRM actively joining the cause, the path towards achieving women’s full and meaningful participation in politics becomes clearer and more attainable. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future, where the voices of women resonate in every corner of society.
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