Masarat Holds Session on Women's Participation in Political and Party Life

The Masarat Jordanian Foundation for Development and Progress held a discussion session in the city of Salt titled "Women’s Participation in Political and Party Life and Their Role in the Upcoming Parliamentary Elections.”

This event was organized as part of the project "Training Female Academics on Party Work in Universities,” implemented by Masarat in collaboration with the King Abdullah II Fund for Development.

Dr. Khaled Al-Bakaar, Head of the Administrative Committee in the Senate, presented an overview of political modernization in Jordan. He emphasized that King Abdullah II has always been a pioneer in initiating comprehensive modernization efforts. Dr. Al-Bakaar pointed out that the royal directives aim to fully update the political system, with a focus on empowering the two largest societal groups—women and youth—to expand their participation in political life, gain access to parliament, and assume leadership positions. However, he noted that women's participation in political work remains below expectations.

During the session, moderated by Masarat’s Executive Director Talal Ghoneimat, Dr. Al-Bakaar highlighted that political parties are currently preparing for the upcoming parliamentary elections, marking their first experience under the newly enacted election and political parties laws. He noted that many parties have put forward electoral programs and stressed the importance of voters making decisions based on these programs and the national interest rather than other considerations.

Dr. Al-Bakaar underscored the importance of political activity taking place within comprehensive parties capable of reaching parliament. He added that women have assumed leadership roles in the Progressive Party, which also works to empower young people by assigning them leadership positions within the party.

Acting Mayor of Greater Salt Municipality Nidal Abu Rumman welcomed the attendees, expressing the municipality's readiness to host similar events. He emphasized that such gatherings shed light on the experiences of female leaders and party members in Salt, particularly those who have won competitive seats in municipal and governorate councils with the highest vote counts. This, he said, reflects the community’s belief in women’s ability to make decisions and uplift society in all its diverse ethnic, religious, and political components.

Abu Rumman further noted that such events inspire and motivate women to advance and develop, challenging stereotypes that promote electing men over women. He stressed that women are partners to men, not rivals, and only need to prove themselves through their knowledge, skills, and ability to influence society with evidence-based arguments and assertive action to claim their rights.

The session also opened the floor for discussions on "Women’s Political Contributions, the Challenges They Face, and Their Role in the Upcoming Parliamentary Elections.”