Africa: Regional networking as transnational feminism

This article argues that the most important transnational dialogues influencing domestic movements and national policy within Africa are regional discussions and regional diffusions of ideas, norms, practices and strategies. The document explores key mechanisms through which regional influences spread and are diffused. The author focuses on an arena in which these regional linkages and influences have been most visible: in encouraging women to claim political leadership positions. The article demonstrates how important continental and sub-regional influences are for domestic politics, serving as a critical conduit for changing international norms.