More Myanmar women running for seats in parliament than ever before
Myanmar ranks 128th in its percentage of women MPs in the lower house, according to the Inter-Parliamentary Union. Lack of freedom of expression, problems in travelling alone, and traditional male dominance in customs are some of the reasons to explain why women still struggle to take part in political life.
In 2010 there were only 101 female candidates. This year, according to the Union Election Commission, nearly 800 women are standing in national and state elections. This comes as a response to pressure felt by political parties to boost the number of female candidates running this November.
A survey by the Myanmar Times revealed that all female candidates were running because they wanted to boost women’s rights.
“Women candidates need the support and training from the party to help them win those seats,” said Mindy Walker, who is currently training female candidates.