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Paragraph 34
 

It will also be noted that Article 25 of the draft law encourages political parties to respect gender parity and ensure participation by young people and people with disabilities; the Venice Commission has recommended corresponding measures in several opinions. Nevertheless, it would be preferable to indicate in the article that it does not include a general, non-temporary requirement for absolute gender equality in all party structures. It is doubtful whether such a requirement would be proportionate to the legitimate aim pursued; reference may be made here to international standards according to which “temporary special measures” aimed at promoting de facto equality for women and minorities may be enacted. During the talks in Tunis, the authorities told the rapporteurs that Article 25 of the draft law was intended to encourage parties to aim for gender parity within their structures and did not lay down a requirement to achieve that result. Nevertheless, the current wording of the provision may give rise to confusion and ought to be altered.