Reshaping Power for Equality: Women’s Political Participation and the Future of Democracy
On 23–24 September 2025, SALAR International, together with the Swedish Associations of Local Governments and Regions (SALAR) and United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) hosted the international conference “Reshaping Power for Equality: Women’s Political Participation and the Future of Democracy” in Stockholm. The event brought together around 100 leaders, policymakers, and experts from 48 countries to discuss how to strengthen feminist leadership and advance democratic renewal.
Over two days, the programme featured high-level dialogues, panel discussions, and exchanges on feminist local governance, women’s political participation, and the role of local authorities in building more inclusive societies. Speakers included mayors, councillors, association leaders, and international experts from Africa, Europe, Latin America, and beyond.
Key highlights
- Strengthening alliances, networks, peer exchange, and mentorship as essential tools for collective action and advancing gender equality—fostering mutual support and shared learning.
- Highlighting the pivotal role of feminist leadership in shaping inclusive local policies and political systems.
- Examining how local and regional governments can promote gender-responsive governance.
- Drawing on Sweden’s local experience and concrete achievements as a global benchmark for gender equality and democratic renewal, showcasing tangible examples that inspire wider change.
- Promoting gender-disaggregated data as the foundation for evidence-based local planning and action on gender equality.
- Engaging men as active partners in advancing gender equality and inclusive change.
"There is no democracy without equality. Women and girls make up half of the population, and their rights and opportunities must be equal to those of men and boys. Everyone should have the chance to participate in decision-making. When both women and men are involved, decisions are more likely to be informed and beneficial to all,” said Emil Broberg, chair of the standing committee for gender equality and member of SKR’s working committee.
Ryan Knox, Managing Director of SALAR International, reinforced this message:
”We live in a time where both democracy and gender equality are challenged. Therefore, it is more important than ever to organise ourselves, support the local level, and continue this long-term work. Together, we can drive development forward—turning words into action.”
Lucy Slack, Secretary-General, CLGF: Ryan Knox, Managing Director at SALAR International; Emilia Saiz Carrancedo, Secretary General of United Cities and Local Governments.