The Innovation Corner took center stage at the 9th UCLG ASPAC Congress in Yiwu, China, spotlighting "Women Trailblazers and Innovators in Local Governance." This advocacy initiative, held on November 15, 2023, brought together a diverse array of voices to champion gender equality and inclusivity within the local governance sphere. It provided a platform for knowledge exchange, showcasing successful initiatives, and fostering collaboration to drive positive change across the Asia-Pacific region.
Mrs. Mary Heather White, Director of the Partnerships for Municipal Innovation – Women in Local Leadership (PMI-WILL) Project at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) presented research on the persistent barriers faced by women candidates and administrators in local governments across Benin, Ghana, Zambia, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka. Globally, women currently hold only 35% of seats in local government, signaling the need for urgent action to close the gender leadership gap.
The Innovation Corner featured impactful poster displays, presenting actions on gender equality and progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 5. UCLG ASPAC members, including Catbalogan City, Philippines; the Federation of Sri Lankan Local Government Authorities (FSLGA); Makati City, Malaysia; the National Association of Rural Municipalities, Nepal; and the NLC, Cambodia, showcased their innovative solutions.
Representatives from diverse local governments shared best practices for gender-balanced local governance and women’s leadership, including the former Mayor of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; the PMI-WILL National Project Coordinator from FSLGA; the Mayor of Ou Chum Commune, Cambodia; the Mayor of Pariaman City, Indonesia; and the Head of Institutional Relations of the Metropolis.
The Innovation Corner produced valuable recommendations for local governments and stakeholders alike which will be made available through the CIB Gender Knowledge Hub in the months. Strategies include civic education to overcome patriarchal barriers, knowledge sharing among municipalities, awareness and capacity-building programs for women leaders, mentorship initiatives, and institutionalization of gender equality through quotas and budget allocation. The emphasis on inclusive decision-making, planning, and budgeting processes, along with data collection on gender-based discrimination, reflects a holistic approach to fostering gender equality.
Other stakeholders are urged to solidify their commitment to gender diversity through voter education, women's rights education, effective communication of the grassroot-level activities of women politicians, financial assistance to women in politics, encouraging political party support, and manifestos that actively promote female candidates.
The Innovation Corner at the UCLG ASPAC Congress was a catalyst for change. By implementing the recommendations, a more inclusive and equitable society can emerge, fostering an environment where women leaders thrive in local government across the Asia-Pacific region.