A day after Donald Trump was elected as the U.S. President, five million American women took to the streets and participated in the “Women’s March” to affirm their bold message of resistance and self-determination, which spread all around the world. Soon after, #MeToo movement became the global crusade against sexual harassment and assault, and is having a huge impact on American politics in the lead-up to the midterm elections.
With this background, we discussed the impact of such women’s movement in politics in the era of Trump, and necessary actions that could promote gender equality in political sphere.

Kristin Haffert is an expert in women’s leadership and initiatives to advance gender equality. For more than two decades Kristin has conducted research, created practical tools, and delivered gender-related initiatives to more than 100 countries. Kristin founded the women and gender equality team at the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI) in 2002. Her award-winning work on gender equality, and work with political parties, makes her a go-to adviser globally to build and grow gender-inclusive workplaces.

Jessica Grounds is recognized as a thought leader in the space of women’s leadership. Jessica was named to Marie Claire's List of 50 Most Influential Women and recognized by Campaigns & Elections magazine as a Top 50 Political Influencer. She is the Co-Founder and former Executive Director of Running Start, a U.S. based organization training young women to run for elected office. She has worked on the campaigns of hundreds of women seeking elected office in the United States including working twice for Hillary Clinton. Jessica is a prominent speaker globally on gender and women's leadership.