CommunicationPublished on 21 February 2023

Standing up for Beninese women

On 12 February 2023 – one month after the general elections – Benin's National Assembly has welcomed its new members of parliament. For the first time in Benin's democratic history, twenty-eight of the 109 parliamentary seats will be occupied by women. Switzerland's governance and gender equality programmes have helped to strengthen women's political leadership.

A meeting with women from the women's leadership programme seeking to be included on electoral lists. The programme is a component of Switzerland's cooperation work in Benin. — © Swiss cooperation work in Benin, SDC

For the first time in the history of Benin's democracy, 25% of National Assembly seats are occupied by women.

We need to address this issue soon if we are to achieve participatory, inclusive and sustainable development.