Morocco has made significant strides in advancing women’s rights, yet women still face substantial barriers to equal representation. Despite reforms, the country ranks 84th globally in gender equality, with women comprising only 19.8% of the labour market, contrasting with the global average of 45.6%. Women hold merely 24.3% of parliamentary seats; however, introducing gender quotas has increased women’s representation. Yasmina Benslimane, a renowned feminist human rights advocate, entrepreneur, and thought leader, is dedicated to bridging this gap.
Raised by a single mother in Morocco, Benslimane’s passion for social justice was ignited early on. Her experiences living in seven countries and studying in diverse environments convinced her that gender inequality is universal.
Benslimane’s academic background is marked by excellence. She has a BA in Political Science from Saint Louis University, an MA in International Law from the United Nations Mandated University for Peace, and an MA in Refugee Protection from the University of London. Her certifications from Harvard Kennedy School, Oxford, and others demonstrate her commitment to lifelong learning.
With over a decade of international experience, Yasmina Benslimane has established herself as a leading voice in the fight for gender equality. Her career spans civil society organisations, NGOs, and international agencies such as UN Women, UNICEF, and IOM. She has worked on humanitarian missions with migrants and refugees, advocated for vulnerable communities, and led teams representing global nonprofits like Doctors Without Borders and Save the Children.
Her leadership acumen has earned her numerous accolades, including Forbes 30 Under 30, BBC’s 100 Most Influential Women of 2023, and Top 100 Under 40 Most Influential People of African Descent. Women Deliver, Saint Louis University, and MADRE have also recognised her work.
As president of Politics4Her, the social advocate empowers young women and girls to become leaders and change-makers. She fosters a global movement advocating for their inclusive participation in politics and leadership. Her expertise extends to advisory roles, providing strategic guidance to organisations like UNDP and UN Women.
Yasmina Benslimane serves on the boards of Spotlight Initiative, Equal Measures 2030, The Middle East Democracy Center, and Menstrual Rights Global. As a certified women’s empowerment coach, she has helped hundreds of young women develop leadership skills.
Benslimane’s message is clear: empowering women and girls is crucial for holistic development. Her tireless efforts inspire hope and action, paving the way for a future where young women and girls can thrive in a world free from violence, with equal opportunities and representation.
In addition to her work with Politics4Her, Benslimane has consulted for various NGOs, women’s rights organisations, and UN agencies on digital communications, youth engagement, gender-based violence, forced migration, and political participation. International bodies, including the United Nations, UN Global Compact, Population Council, UNHCR, IOM, UNDP, UNODC, the African Union, Girl Up, Sciences Po Paris, and GNWP have sought her expertise as a speaker.
Benslimane’s dedication to empowering young women is rooted in her belief that their participation in social, political, and economic decisions is essential for holistic development. As a champion for gender equality, her impact will be felt for generations to come as a potent reminder that empowering women and girls is essential to building a brighter, more sustainable world for all.
