The National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE) urges more women to come forward and contest the European Parliament election in May.

So far, around 30% of MEP candidates are women. Although this is a significant improvement over the last general election, when women accounted for only 20% of all candidates, Malta is still far from reaching gender balance in candidates' lists.

In order to have a more equitable distribution of power between women and men, it is essential that more women participate in the electoral process. Whilst NCPE recognises the several barriers hindering women from their full political participation, it also underlines that their representation in the European Parliament will give women a stronger voice and allow them to engage in actions that bring about an equal, just and inclusive society. Women MEPs from Malta have been recognized for their valuable work within the European Parliament.

Moreover, NCPE recognises that the Maltese electorate is already appreciating women's participation in this sphere, because, as observed from past elections, women have more or less the same chances as men to succeed, as the percentage of women elected is often similar to the percentage of women contestants.

Political parties should also do their utmost to encourage women to participate in the upcoming MEP elections. They should ensure that women have equal access to resources and media coverage, and also review the party structures to address any direct or indirect obstacles to the participation of women in politics in order to move towards a level playing field for all.

Malta should strive to maintain the current equal representation of women and men MEPs, thus contributing to a gender-balanced European Parliament.