ASMAA FATHI

Cairo- The patriarchal mindset that prevents women’s political participation in Egypt restricts women in all facets of life by affecting many Egyptian political parties over the past years. Jihan Al-Falaki, an Egyptian lawyer, has worked on many projects on power cuts, street lights and the presence of “waste” in her neighborhood in Cairo.

One of the most important obstacles faced by women in voluntary political parties’ work is time, said Jihan Al-Falaki. “Many women do not have time to participate in politics because they have to work during the day. Participation in political parties’ work comes after regular work hours; however, they also bear so much of domestic burden.”

Speaking about the candidates for the presidency in the Bar Association, she said, “The results were shocking because none of the female candidates succeeded. Women are underrepresented at decision-making positions no matter how women are competent and have the capacity for change. The exclusion of women in politics and decision-making positions is related to the culture of society. Our society believes that women always need someone and they cannot make decisions.”

‘There is an increase in women’s political participation’

 Asmaa Hassanein Mohamed, a lawyer at the Courts of Appeal and the Council of State and a women’s rights researcher, believes that the rate of women’s participation in political parties has increased, compared to previous years. “Previously, women were marginalized in Egyptian political parties. I can say that this has changed in recent years. Women have an effective presence and influence in various political parties. There is an increase in women’s political participation.”

 ‘Gender equality should be achieved’

Women should be empowered in politics and decision-making positions, said Asmaa Hassanein Mohamed. “Gender equality should be achieved in all aspects of political and public life. Political parties, NGOs and governmental institutions should work together to achieve gender equality.”