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VOL. 8, ISSUE 1 (2026)
From participation to power: Women in electoral politics
Authors
Manjeet Yadav
Abstract
The paper will analyse the history of women's
involvement in electoral politics with special focus on the difference between
their involvement and the extent to which they have substantive power in
governance. Women are still underrepresented as lawmakers and as candidates in
India and in the world at large, despite their percentage of the electorate
making up close to half of the total electorate. The study examines
socio-cultural, economic, and political factors that hamper women's political
power, namely patriarchal rules, economic constraints, and discriminatory
issues at a party level. The research assesses the role of women in
policymaking and reinforces the social reforms through the study of historical
trends, legislative acts, and the case studies of effective women leaders.
Among the findings, it is important to note that participation has grown, but
structural reforms, capacity-building, and support of society are needed to
convert participation into actual power. The recommendations include empowering
gender inclusivity political systems and encouraging the leadership of women at
all levels.
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Pages:28-32
How to cite this article:
Manjeet Yadav "From participation to power: Women in electoral politics". International Journal of Social Science and Humanities, Vol 8, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 28-32
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