The launch of the Women’s Political Participation and Leadership (WPPL) Assessment Framework was held at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, on June 10. This event underscored a commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment, key to the DRG Bureau’s vision that democracy delivers for all.
The WPPL Assessment Framework, developed in 2022, is a diagnostic tool for the Advancing Women’s and Girls’ Civic and Political Leadership Initiative. This USAID-led initiative aims to expand the pipeline of women leaders and create an enabling environment for their meaningful participation in politics. Assessments have been conducted in eight countries, with more planned.
At the event, Mark Billera, Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator of the DRG Bureau, highlighted our dedication to gender-inclusive democracy. He noted that the framework supports evidence-based programming, enabling USAID and our partners to design projects tailored to each country’s specific gender dynamics.
The event also featured a panel discussion led by Jamille Bigio, USAID’s Senior Coordinator for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment. Panelists included Nicole Rowswell (NDI), Mahabat Alymkulova (USAID/Kyrgyz Republic), and Keri Zolman (IRI). They shared their experiences with the WPPL assessments and insights on enhancing women’s political participation and leadership.