ICLD is thrilled to announce the acceptance of a fresh cohort of participants for the Women’s Political Leadership (WPL) programme. Comprising 23 dynamic women leaders—including mayors, deputy mayors, and governors from across the OECD-DAC region—this programme marks the eleventh round of a transformative initiative aimed at empowering women in local politics. This year’s group includes high-ranking local leaders from 10 countries, who will dedicate the next year to strengthening their political influence and promoting inclusive democracy in their communities.
The women who attend the ICLD’s leadership programme for politicians are all important role models to increase the representation of women in local democracy.
“On the local level, where decisions have a direct impact on people’s daily lives, women’s perspectives are invaluable for fostering policies grounded in community realities and that will benefit everyone in society. Closing the gender gap in decision-making isn’t just a matter of equality; it’s a strategic imperative for building more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous societies”, says Anne Scheffer Leander, Programme officer for WPL at ICLD.
Making global strides towards gender-equal governance
Over the past decade, the Women’s Political Leadership programme has supported over 230 women in elected political roles, addressing the persistent gender gap in local leadership. Today, only about 5% of the world’s mayors are women, making this programme’s impact not only necessary but transformative. By prioritising women participation in political decision-making, ICLD aims to create communities where diversity in leadership drives sustainable and equitable development.
A year of leadership growth and local change
The journey for these 23 newly accepted leaders begins with an Inception Workshop from January 29 to February 1, 2025. This gathering will include workshops, mentorship, and a unique opportunity to connect with alumni from previous cohorts, fostering a collaborative network of women in politics. The programme is implemented in collaboration with SALAR and several Swedish politicians who act as mentors, providing participants with valuable insights and guidance throughout their journey. Midway through the programme, participants will also visit Sweden for two weeks to deepen their understanding of democratic governance and explore best practices with Swedish mentors and local experts. The programme will conclude in early 2026 with a Final Workshop, where participants will present the initiatives they’ve developed in their communities.
Programme objectives and timeline highlights
The WPL programme combines intensive workshops and ongoing initiatives in each participant’s locality, where they will implement ”Change Processes” to tackle pressing social challenges. Here’s a snapshot of what lies ahead:
- January 2025: Programme kicks off with a four-day Inception Workshop.
- September 2025: Participants take part in a Swedish Phase, exchanging insights with local officials and mentors.
- January 2026: The Final Workshop closes the year, where participants share progress, plan continued initiatives, and join the ICLD alumni network.
Diverse representation with a shared vision
This year’s participants represent a broad array of communities across Albania, Cameroon, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, Turkey, Uganda, and Zambia. ICLD’s selection process emphasized creating a balanced group, including majority and opposition politicians as well as those with various levels of experience—from under five years in politics to over a decade of service. Each brings unique insights and strengths to the programme, with a shared commitment to advancing local democracy and addressing issues such as gender-based violence, inclusion, and equitable representation.
The inclusion of high-ranking leaders from Kenya—specifically, a governor and two deputy governors—alongside other participants reflects the programme’s expansive focus on regional leaders who are poised to make substantial impacts. This year’s group also includes a leader from Uganda who, with the support of an assistant due to a visual impairment, exemplifies the inclusive values at the heart of the programme.
A legacy of impactful change and future possibilities
ICLD’s WPL programme continues to expand its impact, driven by the shared belief that gender-equal societies are stronger, more democratic, and more resilient. These 23 women are not just participants—they are pioneers, shaping a more inclusive and equitable political landscape for future generations.
Selina Wilson Msenga, Deputy Mayor of Kibaha, Tanzania, and a past participant, embodies this mission.
“I will continue to work politically and seek leadership positions where I can empower and mobilise women to dare to move forward, like me, in politics and decision-making bodies,” she says.
Her commitment exemplifies how the programme empowers women to be agents of change within their communities.
Reflecting on the lasting connections formed through the programme, Keti Luarasi, Deputy Mayor of Tirana, Albania, shares,
“The connections I’ve made have been invaluable, providing me with ongoing support and encouragement in my leadership journey.”
Keti’s journey illustrates the programme’s broader reach, fostering a network of women leaders who inspire and uplift one another while driving tangible improvements in their communities.
Learn more about the inspiring journeys of past participants by reading their stories below, featuring four remarkable women from previous cohorts who are making impactful changes in their communities.
Congratulations to the 2025 Women’s Political Leadership cohort! We eagerly anticipate the positive changes you will bring to your communities and to the world.