Background of the Study
Gender mainstreaming, which involves integrating a gender perspective into political processes, policies, and party structures, has become a key strategy for promoting gender equality in politics (Ogunyemi & Bello, 2023). In Lafia Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, gender mainstreaming has been increasingly emphasized by political parties to ensure that the needs and interests of both women and men are considered in the formulation of political agendas and policies (Ibrahim & Tijani, 2024). However, the effectiveness of gender mainstreaming in political party structures remains debatable, as many parties still struggle with integrating gender-sensitive policies and achieving gender balance in leadership positions (Mohammed & Suleiman, 2025). This study assesses the extent to which gender mainstreaming has been successfully implemented in political party structures in Lafia and the challenges that hinder its full realization.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
While gender mainstreaming is a key focus of many political parties, its practical implementation in Lafia Local Government Area has faced several challenges, including inadequate resources, resistance to change, and a lack of political will to implement gender-sensitive policies (Zahra & Bilyaminu, 2023). The underrepresentation of women in political leadership positions within parties is indicative of the limited success of gender mainstreaming initiatives (Musa & Farida, 2024). This study seeks to examine how political parties in Lafia have engaged with gender mainstreaming, exploring both the successes and the barriers to achieving gender equality within party structures.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the extent to which gender mainstreaming has been integrated into political party structures in Lafia Local Government Area.
To assess the effectiveness of gender mainstreaming in increasing women’s representation in political leadership positions in Lafia.
To identify the challenges faced by political parties in Lafia in implementing gender mainstreaming strategies.
1.4 Research Questions
How effectively has gender mainstreaming been implemented in political party structures in Lafia?
What impact has gender mainstreaming had on women’s representation in political leadership roles in Lafia?
What challenges hinder the full implementation of gender mainstreaming in political party structures in Lafia?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
Gender mainstreaming has been effectively integrated into political party structures in Lafia Local Government Area.
Gender mainstreaming has led to increased representation of women in political leadership positions in Lafia.
Political parties in Lafia face significant challenges in implementing gender mainstreaming due to cultural and institutional factors.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will provide critical insights into the implementation of gender mainstreaming within political parties, offering recommendations to improve women’s representation in politics. The findings will contribute to the broader discourse on how political parties can become more inclusive and equitable in their structures and practices.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on the integration of gender mainstreaming in political party structures in Lafia Local Government Area. Limitations include the possible reluctance of political parties to share detailed data on their gender policies, and challenges in assessing the impact of gender mainstreaming due to a lack of robust monitoring systems.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Gender Mainstreaming: The process of incorporating gender considerations into all political policies, decisions, and practices.
Political Party Structures: The organizational framework of political parties, including leadership positions, decision-making bodies, and internal governance.
Political Leadership: The roles and positions within a political party or government responsible for making decisions and setting policy directions.
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