Vientiane, Lao PDR, 18 October 2024 – Samdech Rathsaphea Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the Cambodian National Assembly, delivered a keynote address today at the WAIPA Women Political Leaders Forum in Vientiane. The event, co-organized by the National Assembly of Lao PDR and the AIPA Secretariat, focused on enhancing women’s political participation and leadership to tackle current global challenges.

In her keynote, Samdech Khuon Sudary outlined five key policy recommendations to advance women’s participation in leadership as follows:

First, political leaders at all levels must demonstrate genuine political will to recognize that women’s participation in decision-making is vital for addressing local, national, and global challenges.

Second, we must urgently tackle harmful social norms and gender-based violence, which continue to limit women’s political rights. Media portrayals that perpetuate stereotypes of women as less capable or legitimate leaders must also be addressed.

Third, we need to remove barriers to women’s inclusion in political parties and leadership roles. Women often face challenges accessing the resources necessary to run for office, such as financial support and political networks.

Fourth, greater investment is needed in capacity-building and leadership development for women at all levels, across all sectors. Providing women with the tools and skills they need is crucial to strengthening their leadership potential.

Fifth, we must promote and reinforce international networks and partnerships that support women’s participation in politics. By developing platforms and opportunities for collaboration, we can amplify the voices of women leaders worldwide.

Samdech's speech aligned perfectly with the forum's theme of turning challenges into opportunities for a more inclusive future. She concluded by stating, “It is long overdue for women to be included in political leadership. Every woman has the potential to lead, succeed, and make a significant impact.”

The WAIPA Women Political Leaders Forum, held in conjunction with the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), brings together women leaders to discuss critical issues surrounding gender equality and the future of political leadership in the region.