Jordan Times
Monday, June 20, 2005
Workshop to explore role of women in political life
AMMAN (JT) — More than 80 female activists and
leaders, civil society representatives, parliamentarians, and political party
representatives will convene today in an effort to define the new role of women
and their opportunities in shaping the Kingdom's political life.
Participants at the workshop are scheduled to discuss suggested amendments to
the political parties and election laws, according to a statement released by
the organisers.
In line with King Abdullah's urgent call for encouraging civil society to
participate in the political reform process, Al Quds Centre for Political
Studies and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation's Amman office are organising the
workshop to promote women's active participation in political life and the
ongoing reforms, the statement said.
The event, held under the patronage of Prime Minister Adnan Badran, will address
two main topics: Women Empowerment in Political Parties and Women's Empowerment
through a Modern Elections Law.
The workshop follows a series of events organised by the two institutions, to
discuss, develop and campaign for the adoption of new laws on political parties
and elections, within both Houses of Parliament.
The civil society initiative seeks to promote participation of all citizens,
male and female, in political life and decision-making.
Today's event will highlight the importance of lobbying for the proposed
amendments, as discussed by political party leaders in a series of workshops
since 2004.