Abstract
Centring Cabo Verde—ranked 6th in Africa on the 2023 Global Gender Gap Index—this paper argues that a significant leadership gap persists despite efforts to eliminate gender inequality. Women have historically participated in politics and community mobilization, yet they still face barriers to political office and are disproportionately affected by poverty. While there have been strides in political participation, it is premature to view these gains as indicative of broader acceptance of women’s leadership. The research examines how the male-dominated political establishment instrumentalizes women’s inclusion. Analyzing Afrobarometer data and fieldwork conducted before and after the 2019 Parity Law, the paper highlights that despite important advancements, women's political presence and leadership remain limited, reflecting the centrality of "inclusion calculations" in Cabo Verde's political landscape.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | AFRICA TODAY |
| Publication status | Accepted/In press - 10 Oct 2024 |