Globally, young women feel overlooked in politics; in the Netherlands, only 21% are happy

Globally, young women feel overlooked in politics; in the Netherlands, only 21% are happy

Girls and young women globally believe they are underrepresented in politics, that they are often excluded from conversations, and that politicians do not represent their interests
Girls and young women globally believe they are underrepresented in politics, that they are often excluded from conversations, and that politicians do not represent their interests. Only 11% of people worldwide are satisfied with their leaders' decisions on matters that are important to them. Only approximately 21% of young women in the Netherlands feel content.

Plan International polled almost 29,000 girls and women between the ages of 15 and 24 around the world regarding their political participation. They live in 29 countries, including Peru, Canada, Benin, and Japan. The Netherlands hosted over a thousand participants. The study was conducted in the run-up to the United Nations' World Girls' Day on October 11, which raises awareness of girls' rights and opportunities.

Participation in politics is crucial to young women and girls. Almost all respondents (97 percent) claimed they are politically involved, such as signing petitions, serving on school councils, or joining student organizations. They are mainly concerned with poverty, unemployment, the environment, education, and health. Climate change, as well as mental and physical health, are key political issues in the Netherlands, according to respondents.

Despite their enthusiasm, the young women face obstacles to become politically involved. Politics, for example, is widely regarded as undesirable for women, particularly young women, in many nations. They are frequently looked down upon, and those polled stated that others believe they lack the necessary knowledge or abilities to engage. According to the responses, women are frequently targets of intimidation and are judged more harshly by their looks or attire than male politicians or activists.

Young women in politics also have few role models. Only ten countries have a female head of government, and only 26% of national legislators are women, with only 1% under the age of 30.

"Even when the door is open to them, their political engagement is frequently symbolic, and their contributions have not been integrated in a meaningful way," said Plan International director Stephen Omollo. "This implies that many decisions affecting young people's present and future are decided for them rather than with them."

To address this, the development agency believes that more should be done to help girls and young women make a difference in their communities and countries. They stated that governments and social media corporations must increase security and combat violent behavior. National and municipal governments must also ensure that girls and women can participate in politics in a safe and meaningful way.

#Politics #GenderInequality #PlanInternational #WorldGirlsDay

SOURCE: nltimes

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