The Relevance of Formal Criteria and Informal Dynamics in the Election of Women Councillors in Niger
Jose Tegels
This paper analyses the experiences of women candidates that won office in the 2004 municipal elections in Niger. Based on research in five municipalities, it examines the formal criteria and informal dynamics that influenced their election.
sThe study's findings confirmed the hypothesis that women are chosen as candidates and elected councillors because of their engagement in informal mechanisms rather than because they meet formal criteria.
Self-confidence and trust in their own capacity appeared to be of particular importance as wel as political involvement and a family history in politics.
