At the Athens Democracy Forum, RepresentWomen’s Cynthia Richie Terrell moderates a global panel on how electing more women — and adopting systemic reforms — strengthens democracy.
Event: Breakfast Briefing: Strengthening Democracy – Women in Politics at the Athens Democracy Forum
Moderator: Cynthia Richie Terrell, Founder & CEO, RepresentWomen
Panelists: Alison Duncan (Australian Ambassador to Greece, Bulgaria & Romania); Jennifer M. Piscopo (Professor of Gender & Politics, Royal Holloway, University of London); Susannah Wellford (Founder & CEO, Running Start)
At this Breakfast Briefing at the Athens Democracy Forum, RepresentWomen’s Cynthia Richie Terrell moderates a global panel on why electing more women—and adopting systemic reforms—strengthens democracy for everyone. The discussion connects international evidence with practical solutions, highlighting:
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Legitimacy & outcomes: Democracies with more women in leadership see higher public trust and more responsive policymaking.
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Systems that work: Proportional representation, gender quotas/parity rules, ranked-choice voting, fair legislative pay, and caregiving policies help level the playing field.
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Pipeline to power: Candidate training, mentorship, and early civic leadership (from student government to campaign roles) build durable pathways for women.
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Global lessons: Insights from Mexico, Australia, Iceland and beyond on moving from stalled progress to sustained parity.
Key takeaway: Achieving gender-balanced governance requires a twin-track approach—pipeline + systems reform—so women can run, win, serve, and lead.
Watch the video here.