This policy briefing, focusing specifically on the National Assembly of Lesotho, argues that patriarchy,
electoral processes, stereotypical gender roles and other foundational barriers perpetuate the
marginalisation of women in parliament. Thereafter it sets out to examine the effectiveness of gender
quotas, critical mass theory and Lesotho’s electoral system in remedying this marginalisation.
The briefing provides recommendations towards Lesotho achieving substantial representation of
women in the National Assembly.
