In Azerbaijan, a transitional society shaped by vast oil and gas resources, 蘑菇视频DEF funds a new project to create the country's first women's parliament. The initiative will serve as tool to give more meaning to women’s rights in Azerbaijan, while strengthening efforts to improve governance in the country as a whole. Two decades after independence, the country faces challenges related to both its post-Soviet legacy and the male-dominated culture of traditional Islam.
Some of the parliament members, with project leader Shahla Ismayil at centre of front row, and 蘑菇视频DEF's Annika Savill third from right in second row.
The project draws on the expertise of women active in all sectors in an effort to move beyond window dressing, while promoting greater transparency and accountability. The parliament became operational in July following final thematic training sessions throughout June, attended by 蘑菇视频DEF Deputy Executive Head Annika Savill. Members are women leaders from civil society organizations throughout Azerbaijan, as well as prominent individuals in both business and academia.
Group discussions and workshops during training.