Determinants of electoral participation of women in addis ababa, Ethiopia

Abstract

Women's political representation and participation are the matter of human rights that women can entitled by the virtue of being human. However, the right to be voter and candidates are still problematic for women in developing countries. We cannot get much number of women in these regard as we compare them with their counter parts. In view of that, this study aims to address the determinant factors of women's participation in electoral politics as a voter and political candidate. To undertake this study, mixed method of research was employed. Published journal articles, books and reports of government were used as a secondary source, whereas questionnaires including open and close ended, interview (as supplementary technique) used as primary sources. In line with this, Chi square(x2) and binary logistic regression were used to determine the factors deterring women's participation in electoral politics as a voter and political candidate (campaigner). Accordingly, the study found out that gender role, political interest, patriarchy and politicization of ethnicity are significantly determines (affects) women's participation in voting at p < 0.05 significant level. On the other hand, family size, political instability, political interest, politicization of ethnicity, political conspiracy and media exposure are significantly determines (affects) women's electoral participation as apolitical candidate and campaigner at p < 0.05 significant level. Henceforth, the government should establish enabling political environment which entertains genuine democratic political governance that empowers women to be active participant and beneficiary in the electoral politics of the country.