Another barrier for women in politics: Violence

Despite Canada’s self-proclaimed feminist prime minister and gender parity in the federal cabinet, our country falls well short when it comes to women’s representation in federal politics.

Canada has just 27 per cent women in its Parliament and currently ranks 62nd in the world in rankings of women’s representation: 62nd!

As we gear up for the federal election in October, much more needs to be done to attract and keep women in politics in this country.

Canadian women in politics encounter long-standing and stubborn barriers that are hurdles to running and staying in politics. These barriers include the usual suspects: family responsibilities (and lack of child care supports); lack of networks and financial support; few women role models — to name a few.