The main objective of the workshop is to raise awareness among election stakeholders, including political parties, media, and potential women leaders about the upcoming by-elections, and in particular to encourage political parties to increase meaningful participation of women in politics and decision-making processes.

The two and a half day workshop is customized on the basis of BRIDGE Version 3 and conducted using adult learning methodologies. Brainstorming, role play, group work, presentations, debate and quiz contests will be used during various sessions, in which all the participants will participate actively. The major topics to be covered are: introduction to BRIDGE, national and international legal framework on gender inclusion in elections, the ECN gender equality and social inclusion policy, women participation in all three tiers of elections held in 2017, diversity of women, the electoral cycle, electoral systems, the role of political parties in increasing women’s participation in politics, quota systems, and gender balance at polling places, among others. Icebreakers and energizers will also be conducted in between the sessions.