Local Government Election will take place in Trinidad on Monday 14th August, 2023. With screening well underway for candidates, the Caribbean Women in Leadership (CIWiL) Trinidad and Tobago National Chapter calls on political parties to ensure the equal representation of women candidates in the screening and nomination processes.
At the last Local Government Election in 2019, 36% of women were represented in local government councils. Though this was an increase from the previous term (2016), which stood at 30.4%, it is evident that there is much room for improvement to attain 50 percent of women representation at Local Government. With a current total population of 51.6% female and 48.4% male, the data reveals that women’s representation at the local government councils have been disproportionate. CIWiL affirms that women’s equal representation at the Local Government Election is essential to the sustainable development and wellbeing of our nation.
Research has shown that women in politics prioritize issues that affect women, children and society at large. This includes the stewardship of fundamental needs. For example, women are more likely to support allocation of resources for street lights for a community as she understands the experiences of women and girls as they walk on poorly lit streets, or rally for creating community spaces and parks for women and children for physical activity and play.
CIWiL Trinidad and Tobago National Chapter appeals to all political parties to prioritize the full and equal representation of women candidates throughout the nomination process. Consistent with the Beijing Platform for Action and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, CIWiL supports the meaningful participation of women in politics and all decision making spaces. The chapter extends support and congratulations to all women who are committed to serving their communities and country at the Local Government level.
CIWiL is a non-partisan and independent, flagship networking organization committed to advancing women’s transformational leadership, and to increase the numbers of women in leadership and decision making in political and civic life. For more information on the CIWiL Trinidad and Tobago National Chapter, visit civil.org, email ciwilttnationalchapter@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.