Manzhikova claims there are virtually no women in Kalmykia authorities

Russia occupies 83rd place by the number of women in the bodies of power, with virtually no women in Kalmykia authorities, claimed Natalia Manzhikova, president of non-profit foundation "Gender Equality", at the forum on consolidating women's movement.

The "Caucasian Knot" reported previously that an international meeting on the consolidation of women's movement across post-Soviet space was held in Elista on June 25-26. The topic of discussion at the forum included problems connected with the consolidation of women's movement across the post-Soviet space, hidden and open discrimination of women in the social and economic spheres, domestic violence, low demand for women in politics.

"There are virtually no women in Kalmykia authorities," claims Natalia Manzhikova, president of non-profit foundation "Gender Equality" and member of Elista city assembly. "Until recent appointment of Liudmila Ivanova minister of finance there have been no women at all".

Marina Mukabenova, member of RF State Duma representing Kalmykia, has noted "the formal character of declaring the equality of male and female rights". She states that a draft law is currently under consideration of the Russian parliament, aimed at a real provision of gender equality.

"Women are a great force which is able to do a lot, but with the support of men", says Olga Kovalenko, head of the All-Ukrainian organization "Union of Orthodox Women", talking of the social sphere and public diplomacy.

"The project "Women's Democratic Network" is being implemented in many countries of the world," notes Alexandra Turchenkova, representative of the International Republican Institute. "The project is aimed at supporting women's initiatives by grants and sub-grants, and helping them in finding an employment".

Irina Godovich, coordinator on gender policy of the party "Rightful Cause", has proposed to enter politics "through two doors: for men and for women, so that the electorate does not have to choose candidates based exclusively on their professional qualities". In other words, the voter, in her opinion, must have a chance to vote giving preference to candidates based on gender, among other things.