Where Do We Go from Here? Enhancing Women’s Political Representation in the Local Councils of Albania

Abstract

Women's representation in the local councils of Albania has increased almost fourfold in less than a decade. But -in the face of these numeric changes -there are growing concerns that numbers do not translate into political power and are used strategically by political leaders.We draw upon our experience of studying women's political representation in local councilsand our engagement with national and international organizations -to discuss what we think should be the next steps for advancing women's political representation in local councils. Our suggestions are useful for women's rights advocates in Albania and other countries in the region facing similar development challenges.