The obstacles to women's political participation and higher education in Somalia

This study investigates the obstacles to women's political participation and higher education in Somalia, drawing historical parallels from Ancient Greece, Egypt, and Mesopotamia to modern times. Historically, women were often excluded from political participation and regarded as minors or enslaved individuals. The right to education, particularly higher education, is crucial for empowering women to engage in politics and decision-making processes. So, a comprehensive literature review and analysis were conducted, examining historical texts, educational policies, and contemporary studies on women's political participation. The findings indicate that women historically faced significant obstacles to political participation due to cultural norms, gender discrimination, and limited access to education and resources. Higher education emerged as a critical factor in providing women with the necessary networks, information, and skills for political engagement. Women's political involvement was shown to positively impact democratic processes, policy-making, and addressing the needs of marginalized groups. The study highlights the importance of removing barriers to education and promoting higher education for women to enhance their political participation. Ensuring women's active involvement in politics is essential for advancing democracy and achieving inclusive governance in Somalia. The findings underscore the need for continued efforts to support women's education and political empowerment to foster equitable and effective decision-making.