In 1991, the YWCA adopted a 25% minimum representation quota for young women’s participation in all decision making bodies at national and world levels. The motivation: to ensure relevance to the issues and needs of new generations of women; to embrace new ways of thinking and working; and to sustain the future of the organization and its vision for justice, peace, health, human dignity, freedom and care for the environment’.

The World YWCA’s 25% minimum representation quota is enshrined in the organization’s policies and constitution, which ensures it governs all election processes and other appointments within the organization. All affiliated associations and the World body are also required to report on progress in meeting the quota, as part of mandatory four year reporting.