The Nordic Africa Institute – Publications

This book examines gendered electoral violence (GEV) in Ghana, Kenya and Zimbabwe, showing how women in local politics face systematic physical, sexual, economic, psychological and symbolic violence designed to deter their participation and preserve male-dominated political systems.

Drawing on 134 interviews with politically active women, the study documents widespread intimidation, online abuse, harassment, disinformation, and intra-party violence. Younger, unmarried women, those from marginalised ethnic groups, and those in opposition parties face the highest risks. Even where gender quotas exist – as in Kenya and Zimbabwe – GEV persists, and increased representation has not translated into safer political environments. Women often rely on personal ‘safety work,’ such as avoiding unsafe areas, campaigning in groups or hiring protection, due to weak formal support structures.

The authors offer recommendations to policymakers at both national and local levels for coordinated action, including stronger legal protections, increased party accountability, gender-sensitive policing and election management, expanded civil society support, and international partnerships to prevent GEV and safeguard women’s political rights.