Half of the world goes to the polls in 2024. Let’s ensure women’s voices are heard | Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

As Africa's first elected female head, I know the barriers we face. But this could be a pivotal year if we can rise to the challenge

This year, the citizens of more than 60 countries, representing nearly half of the global population, will go to the polls, making 2024 the biggest election year the world has ever seen. A democratic mechanism of that magnitude will have a far-reaching impact on billions of citizens.

Municipal, national and presidential elections take on an even more crucial significance given the scale of global challenges - from conflicts and famine to the climate crisis, gender-based violence and terrorism.