WEBINAR APRIL 2026 WYDE WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE - FACT SHEETS

The webinar was organized by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) under the Women and Youth Democratic Engagement (WYDE) Women’s Leadership Initiative, funded by the European Union and implemented in partnership with UN Women, the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), and United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), with overall coordination led by UN Women. Held on 22 April 2026, the webinar brought together stakeholders and practitioners to review and validate a series of thematic fact sheets developed through the WYDE Women’s Leadership Initiative. Opening remarks were delivered by Rumbidzai Kandawasvika-Nhundu, Theme Lead for Gender Equality, Empowerment and Inclusion at International IDEA, who emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative and encouraged participants to share feedback and regional perspectives during the validation process. PRESENTERS/SPEAKERS 1. Salman Asif is a specialist in gender equality, political participation, and prevention of gender-based violence, with more than 15 years of international experience. He presented the fact sheet on male engagement in advancing women’s political participation and representation. 2. Mariatu Elba is a human rights, gender equality, and governance expert with over 15 years of experience, particularly in Southern Africa. She presented the fact sheet on violence against women in politics. 3. Caroline Hubbard is a gender equality and inclusive governance specialist with more than 20 years of experience. She presented the fact sheet on the global context and status of young women’s political participation and representation.