The Asia Foundation

The Asia Foundation has had a dedicated program to increasing women’s participation in democratic processes and public decisionmaking across the Asia-Pacific region since 1992. The Foundation’s commitment to advancing women’s...

The Asia Foundation has had a dedicated program to increasing women’s participation in democratic processes and public decisionmaking across the Asia-Pacific region since 1992. The Foundation’s commitment to advancing women’s political participation is based on the recognition that broad citizen participation is not only an important end in itself, but it is also the key to addressing the immediate, practical, and longterm strategic needs of women. Ultimately, increasing women’s political participation is an effective means for promoting more open, democratic societies in which women are full participants and beneficiaries of national development. Working with and through local partner organizations in 21 countries throughout Asia, the Foundation serves as a regional resource providing technical expertise, training, and financial support.

Across Asia, there is a growing commitment to
democratic principles of governance and citizen
participation. However, in many Asian countries,
women still face serious cultural, social, and legal
barriers that constrain...

Across Asia, there is a growing commitment to
democratic principles of governance and citizen
participation. However, in many Asian countries,
women still face serious cultural, social, and legal
barriers that constrain their full participation in
democratic processes. The Asia Foundation works
with local partners across the Asia-Pacific region
to increase the number of women voting; improve
the quality of women’s votes; encourage that elections
are free and fair and ensure that women’s
votes are counted; and help women to enter politics
and become candidates and leaders themselves.