
Organized by: Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions (SALAR)
Application Period: May 5 – August 4, 2025
Program Duration: 12 months
Cohort Start: January 2026 (Cohort 12)
This leadership training is designed exclusively for women political leaders from OECD-DAC listed ODA-eligible countries. The program focuses on strengthening political leadership, democratic governance, and inclusion of underrepresented groups, particularly women in political decision-making positions.
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must meet all of the following conditions:
- Be a woman currently serving as a Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Governor, or Deputy Governor
- Hold an elected or appointed position in local or regional government
- Be a citizen of an OECD-DAC listed ODA-eligible country
- Not be from a country undergoing local or national elections between August and December 2025 (such countries are temporarily ineligible for that year)
Of all the mayors globally, only 5% are women. This program aims to raise that number by investing in future role models.
Program Themes:
- Political leadership and governance
- Transparency and accountability
- Equity and participation
- Strategic communication and influence
- Strengthening democratic institutions
Application Details:
- Applications must be submitted through the official application portal
- No application fee is required
Application Deadline: August 4, 2025
Apply via official application portal