Hillary Clinton

Why are there fewer women than men in politics? It is argued that women are not interested in politics. But political empowerment of women ensures a more inclusive democracy. For an inclusive democracy, women’s participation in the decision making in the public sector is essential. Women’s participation in politics improves the conditions of their community. A comprehensive vision of democracy entails active participation of women in politics. Women’s participation in politics empowers women in all dimensions of their lives. More women in politics break the stereotypes by generating new women prototypes and role models which eradicate discrimination against women. Political empowerment of women allows their voices to be heard in all affairs of the State which guarantees development and good governance. Women make up half the population of America, so their interests and concerns need to be assured through their participation in politics and decision making of the country. A true democracy represents all groups in a society, including women who constitute half of the population. So it is fair that women must participate equally in political decision making and in all branches of government. José Miguel Insulza, Secretary General of the Organization of American States, remarks “Inequality and women’s low political representation in the legislative, executive and judicial branches, as well as in political party leadership, are a critical indicator of shortcomings of our democracy and our rule of law.” (2011)

So women have the right to participate in political processes and decision making of a country because it affects them. By strengthening women’s political participation, countries become more inclusive and democratic. With increased political participation of women, female empowerment can be achieved.

In America, the story of political empowerment of women is defined by change over time. American women have advanced to country leadership. They are playing a significant role in shaping the political and social history of the country. Hillary Clinton represents political empowerment of women in America. It is only now that a woman is nominated as a first woman candidate in the US presidential elections. Clinton secured the Democratic presidential nomination as the first woman in the 240-year history of the United States. Hillary Clinton has offered public service over the decades. By helping to expand health coverage for millions of kids to standing up for women’s rights, she has done that all. After her law school, Hillary took a job at Children’s Defense Fund. As a First Lady of the United States, Hillary Clinton fought hard to help pass health care reform. She helped get 9/11 first responders the health care they needed. Clinton declared “women’s rights are human rights,” standing in front of a U.N. conference. She helped expand health care and family leave for military families. Clinton served as the nation’s chief diplomat by negotiating a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. She made the empowerment of women a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy. She took a personal interest in empowering women internationally. Hillary Clinton played a significant role in rebuilding America’s leadership and prestige overseas.

Clinton’s nomination as the first woman candidate in the US presidential elections is an immense pride and satisfaction for all the women in the world. Active participation of women in politics is essential to increase  democratic stability of a country. Women’s political participation is a key feature to build effective and stable democracies. Political empowerment of women benefits all of the society.