Women in Policymaking: a Story from South Sudan

South Sudan is not only the youngest country in the world, but it is also home to a large youth population: more than 70% of South Sudanese are under the age of 30! It also has one of the highest rates of sexual and gender-based violence in the world according to the World Bank.  

Today, South Sudanese women are often excluded from taking part in policy-making and decision-making processes. Yet, many of them have become strong advocates for building a more peaceful and inclusive society by demanding their meaningful participation at all levels of decision making. In fact, women are key drivers, not only in promoting socio-economic development, but also in addressing conflict resolution in South Sudan.

As a passionate advocate for women and youth participation in political processes in Africa, Honorable Yar Telar Deng, one of the youngest members of Parliament in South Sudan, helps uncover how trade and trade policy can contribute to the economic and political empowerment of women.

 

Guest:

• Honorable Yar Telar Deng, Member of Parliament, South Sudan.

Host:

• Axel M. Addy, former Minister of Commerce and Industry and Chief Negotiator of Liberia's accession to the WTO.