Women Encouraged to Stand for Election in Guernsey

Women in Guernsey are being urged to stand for elections, as current female representation in the States is approximately 20%. The group Women in Public Life (WiPL) highlights the need for more women in politics, noting that Guernsey ranks poorly internationally. They are offering support through a free campaign training program to help women prepare for the elections.

Women in Guernsey are being encouraged to consider standing for election in the upcoming elections. The voluntary group, Women in Public Life (WiPL), reported that female representation in the States stands at approximately 20%, which is notably lower than the 43% representation observed in Jersey’s States Assembly.

Chair of WiPL, Shelaine Green, expressed concern regarding Guernsey’s ranking in terms of female representation, indicating it is just above Saudi Arabia and Turkey. She emphasized, “Without better representation, the views and life experiences of women are not being heard…” highlighting the critical need for women’s voices in decision-making processes that affect the island.

If Guernsey were included in the Inter-Parliamentary Union’s rankings, it would place 123rd globally for female representation in national parliaments, a stark contrast to the UK Parliament’s rank of 26th at 40.5%. Ms. Green assured women that they hold equal chances of success in elections and stated, “Guernsey simply needs more women to put themselves forward in the first place.”

WiPL, comprised of both men and women, is actively promoting female participation through a free Train to Campaign program on March 23, aimed at enhancing campaigning skills. Ms. Green extended an invitation to potential candidates, urging, “If you’re a woman thinking of standing in June 2025, talk to us… your island needs you.”

The appeal is part of a broader initiative to motivate women and ensure their representation in local governance, addressing pressing issues and contributing to the island’s future.

The call for increased female participation in Guernsey’s upcoming elections is a crucial step towards enhancing representation in governance. With only 20% of women currently in the States, this initiative by Women in Public Life aims to bridge the gap and amplify women’s voices in decision-making roles. The encouragement of women to stand for election and the provision of resources to assist them signifies progress towards a more inclusive political landscape in Guernsey.

Original Source: www.bbc.com