Home > 6 Political parties > MALTA- Joint Opinion on the Draft Act to Regulate the Formation, the Inner Structures, Fuctioning and Financing of Political Parties and their Participation in Elections
 
 
 
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Paragraph 60
 

F. Gender issues


The draft Act does not contain provisions on the promotion of gender equality within internal party structures or in the wider electoral process. According to the Guidelines, in respecting universal and regional instruments designed to ensure equality for women, as well as general principles for non-discrimination, legislation should endeavour to ensure that women are able to participate fully in political parties as a fundamental means for the full enjoyment of their political rights.[1] There are a number of ways of achieving this goal, some of which are related to internal party regulations, whilst others may be contained in legislation. Gender equality may be promoted through the creation of a “women’s section” or “gender division” within political parties;[2] by introducing electoral gender quotas that could increase women’s parliamentary representation,[3] by providing training and capacity-building programmes developed for female members and potential candidates prior to their selection,[4] by adopting, implementing or evaluating gender-equality strategies, plans and programmes at different levels, including specific action plans to achieve balanced participation and representation of women and men in internal political party offices,[5] or by recognizing and considering the family responsibilities of party members.[6] It is recommended to consider including specific provisions to promote gender equality in the draft Act, and in particular, to ensure greater gender balance in electoral lists.


[1] Guidelines, par. 101.


[2] Guidelines, par. 100


[3] Guidelines, par. 102.


[4] Guidelines, par. 103.


[5] Guidelines, par. 104.


[6] Guidelines, par. 105.