RESEARCH BRIEF: The appropriation of the 50/50 gender quota in local councils: Political parties’ back-room strategies

Following the 2023 local elections, the Albanian media reported that many women candidate resigned one after another—quietly. Many withdrew without taking office. Women resigned and were replaced by men. These types of replacements have been a persistent problem in Albanian politics.2 However, the changes to the Electoral Code were supposed to have put an end to the political parties’ tactics. But this does not seem to be the case. The problem persists; however, its prevalence and the entire process—from the inclusion of women in political party lists to their replacement with men—are not clear. The study focuses exactly on this process, paying particular attention to resignations given before candidates took office.

About the Authors
Dr. Marsela Dauti’s research expertise focuses on democratization processes and the ways in which they unfold at the local level. Dr. Dauti has examined issues related to community involvement in local decision-making, gender quotas in politics, and the use of evidence in policymaking. After completing her doctorate at the University of Washington, Dr. Dauti has  been engaged in political and social reforms in Albania, including those aimed at advancing gender equality in political decision-making.
Geldona Metaj works in the field of social work and social policy with a focus on gender equality and civic participation. She is engaged in issues related to women’s political representation in decision-making. She is currently pursuing her doctoral studies at the University of Tirana and combines academic research with practical experience in education, civil society, and social development programs.

Acknowledgements
The study was conducted in close collaboration with the Albania Women’s Empowerment Network (AWEN). Thank you Ines Leskaj and Miklovana Droboniku for supporting us at every step of the research process—starting with communication with the Central Election Commission, political parties, and municipal councils, and continuing with the establishment of the local working group. The local group was intensely engaged, ensuring that we obtained rich data.

Thank you Besmira Lekaj, Genc Gjoci, Gledisa Çela, Sonila Muzhaqi, Elsa Murataj, Elsa Sula, and Xhensila Murati! Gratitude to the Directorate of Communication and Coordination at the Central Election Commission, whose staff received us twice and responded to our requests.
The study would not have been possible without the close cooperation with the “Friedrich Ebert” Foundation in Tirana. Thank you for your support.