The twin pillars of development in the Americas are democratization and the strengthening of free market economies and trade in order to promote prosperity and stability. Within this context, it is necessary for all sectors of the citizenry to understand and participate to achieve free, equitable and sustainable societies. In spite of progress made by countries around the world, many citizens still lack both information and access to decision-making fora, particularly in the area of economic and trade policy. Latin American women are, as a group, less aware of policy issues and participate less in public decision-making than their male counterparts.
Women are also seriously under-represented in the economic sector.
Since IFES was established in 1987, the Foundation has worked in over 120 countries worldwide providing assistance in the areas of election administration, rule of law, good governance, and civil society strengthening. IFES's experience in working with all sectors of civil society in election and non-election related programs, as well as their cornerstone research strengths and their integrated focus on women's participation, puts them in a unique position to bring women's voices into the public economic arena. Along with key partners, including Motorola, Inc. and others, IFES proposes to implement a program composed of focus group research and a Central American Women's Regional Training Forum for small and medium enterprise owners. In order to develop the most effective training program, IFES and its partners will conduct a series of focus groups throughout Central America. This research will determine women's levels of knowledge regarding economic policies, as well as their perception about their ability to impact those policies via the democratic process.