Policy Briefs

Issues in this Series

National Action Plan on Women's Equal Participation in Public Service

Rangita de Silva de Alwis
The evidence has never been clearer that women’s political, economic, and social participation and leadership are vital to development. Countries where women are fairly represented in government enjoy greater security, higher levels of development, and more inclusive policy-making. The incoming administration should take advantage of this critical moment in history by developing the first-ever National Action Plan on Women’s Equal Participation in Public Service and sign an executive order directing that the plan be implemented. This plan would chart a course to enhance women’s equal role in public service and political participation around the world, and it would transform how the United States approaches its diplomatic and development-based support to women, thus ensuring equal participation in all levels of decision-making.

The Wilson Weekly

Experts & Staff

Council of Women World Leaders

In 2011, the Council of Women World Leaders became part of the Wilson Center at its initiative. Over time, the Council felt that it required greater independence than was possible as part of the Global Women’s Leadership Initiative at the Center. As of April 5, 2013, the Council is no longer part of the Wilson Center but looks forward to partnering with the Center on programming promoting women’s leadership. The Council thanks the Wilson Center for its continued commitment to global women’s leadership.