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100th year of publishing TheParliamentarian

Journal of the Parliaments of the Commonwealth 2019 | Volume 100 | Issue One | Price £14

Women and Parliament: 30th anniversary of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians PAGES 20-69

PLUS Commonwealth Women Towards safe work Importance of education Male Parliamentarians in politics: Progress on environments in to increase women’s as ‘agents of change’ global change Parliaments political participation

PAGE 23 PAGE 36 PAGE 44 PAGE 60 CPA Masterclasses STATEMENT OF PURPOSE The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) exists to connect, develop, Online video Masterclasses build an informed promote and support Parliamentarians and their staff to identify benchmarks of parliamentary community across the Commonwealth good governance, and implement the enduring values of the Commonwealth. and promote peer-to-peer learning Calendar of Forthcoming Events Confirmed as of 25 February 2019 CPA Masterclasses are ‘bite sized’ video briefings and analyses of critical policy areas 2019 and parliamentary procedural matters by renowned experts that can be accessed by March the CPA’s membership of Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff across the Friday 8 March International Women’s Day 2019 Commonwealth ‘on demand’ to support their work. Monday 11 March Commonwealth Day 2019 – ‘A Connected Commonwealth’, CPA HQ and all CPA Branches

April

11 to 15 April Mid-Year meeting of the CPA Executive Committee, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

May

1 to 2 May CPA Parliamentary Strengthening Seminar for the Parliament of Bermuda, Hamilton, Bermuda 19 to 22 May 48th CPA British Islands and Mediterranean Regional Conference, St Peter Port, Guernsey

July

12 to 19 July 44th Annual Conference of the CPA Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic Region, Trinidad and Tobago

September

22 to 29 September 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC), Kampala, Uganda – including 37th CPA Small Branches Conference and 6th triennial Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Conference.

The publication of a CPA Calendar of events fosters the exchange of events and activities between CPA Regions and Branches. For further information on any events, please contact the CPA Branches concerned or the CPA Headquarters Secretariat. CPA Branch Secretaries are asked to send notice of main CPA events to [email protected] in advance of the publication deadline to ensure the Calendar is accurate. Further information can also be found at www.cpahq.org or by emailing [email protected].

CPA Masterclass topics include: Disaster Risk Reduction | Gender and Parliament | Gender CPA Parliamentary Fundamentals Programme Budgeting | Women’s and Gender Caucusing | The role of male MPs as ‘agents of change’ | Corporate Leadership for Parliamentarians | Parliamentarians and Local Government | Enrolment is now open for the CPA Parliamentary Fundamentals Programme - on Separation of Powers in Relation to Parliament | Trade and the Role of Parliamentarians the general course for Commonwealth Parliamentarians or the course specifically developed for Members from CPA Small Branches. Programmes are accredited The CPA Masterclasses are available online via the CPA website. with McGill University, Canada (Small Branches programme) and the University of www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpamasterclasses Witwatersrand, South Africa (General programme). Programme includes: Online modules | Residential components | Teaching by world-class academics and parliamentary experts. Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) PLACES AVAILABLE NOW FOR 2019/2020 Email: [email protected] | Tel: +44 (0)20 7799 1460 | www.cpahq.org To find out more visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpafundamentals or email [email protected] Twitter @CPA_Secretariat | Facebook.com/CPAHQ Updated January 2019 CONTENTS: THE PARLIAMENTARIAN 100th year of publishing CONTENTS 2019: ISSUE ONE The Parliamentarian

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The Parliamentarian: Annual subscription Journal of the Parliaments VIEWS & NEWS & SPECIAL ISSUE: Towards safe work Centenary celebrations FEATURE (four issues) of the Commonwealth COMMENT PHOTOS CWP AT 30 environments in that lacked ‘Deeds’ ARTICLES UK: £44 inc. postage. Volume 100 Parliaments An academic perspective Worldwide: £46 surface post 2019: Issue One A View from Australia of women’s political £52 airmail Editor’s Note CPA Photo Gallery History of the Page 36 representation in the UK Commonwealth The Parliamentarian Page 4 Page 14 Commonwealth Women Page 52 Parliamentarians discuss ISSN 0031-2282 Parliamentarians how to create effective Price per issue Challenges of increasing UK: £14 View from the CPA CPA News Former CWP Chairperson women’s representation Women Supporting Parliaments Issued and published by the Chairperson News reports include: Page 20 Report from 67th Westminster Worldwide: £15 surface post International Secretariat of the in Australia and New Women: CWP Alumni £16 airmail Gender equality, women and • CPA Fundamentals Zealand Initiative Seminar Commonwealth Parliamentary Programme with McGill Page 70 Parliaments Commonwealth A youth perspective Introducing the Commonwealth Association (CPA), CPA University wins industry award Disclaimer Page 6 Women in politics: Page 38 Women Parliamentarians Headquarters Secretariat, • CPA Chairperson at UN Forum Opinions and comments Progress on global Alumni Initiative An insider’s guide to Richmond House, Houses of View from the on Human Rights, Democracy change the CPA Fundamentals expressed in articles and Parliament, London Experiences of being a Page 56 reviews published in The Commonwealth Women and the Rule of Law The ‘Mother of the House’ in woman in Parliament Programme for CPA SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom. • CPA Working Group on CPA the UK Parliament Small Branches Parliamentarian are those of Parliamentarians (CWP) A personal view from Australia Male Parliamentarians Programmes Page 23 Report from the Isle of Man the individual contributors Chairperson Page 40 as ‘agents of change’ Tel: +44 (0) 20 7799 1460 • CPA Chairperson at CIS Page 72 and should not be attributed Cyber harassment against Gender inequality and the role Email: [email protected] Interparliamentary Assembly ‘Madam, Do not sit to the Secretariat of the women on social media Increasing the numbers of male MPs www.cpahq.org in St Petersburg there. That seat is for Association. Page 8 of Women in Parliament Page 60 Twitter @CPA_Secretariat • Retirement of outgoing UK the Minister’ PARLIAMENTARY A perspective from Pakistan Contributors Facebook.com/CPAHQ View from the CPA Small Clerk of Parliament Parliamentary experiences of Page 42 One hundred years of REPORTS Thank you to all contributors Branches Chairperson • CPA Secretary-General delivers the first woman Speaker of Mr Akbar Khan women’s suffrage in for this issue. Women and their participation Middlesex University Lecture the Parliament of Uganda Reflections on women’s Jersey Parliamentary Report Secretary-General • CPA Post-Election Seminar in Page 26 in Parliament empowerment History of Jersey women in Featuring parliamentary Grenada Printed in: United Kingdom Page 10 Importance of education to politics and legislative reports from Mr Jeffrey Hyland Pages 15-19 Women and Gender in by Warners Midlands, PLC; Editor, The Parliamentarian increase women’s political Page 62 Canada, British Columbia, New Delhi, India by Jainco View from the CPA Caribbean Politics participation United Kingdom, New Zealand, [email protected] Secretary-General Commonwealth Women The challenges facing women Art India; and Singapore Page 44 Gender equality in Sri Lanka, Australia and India by Times Printers Private Parliamentary gender Parliamentarians (CWP) in politics in the Caribbean Main images: CPA Parliaments on a small Pages 75-95 Limited. caucuses and the News Page 29 Headquarters Secretariat Increasing women’s island like Alderney Commonwealth Women News from the Commonwealth CPA Organisational and Shutterstock images. economic empowerment A personal view gender equality Parliamentarians at 30 Women Parliamentarians Women’s political Structure Additional images: CPA Finding policy solutions in the UK from a CPA Small Branch Page 12 (CWP) activities participation in the CPA CPA Executive Committee Branches and Members. Page 47 Page 64 Pages 67-69 Pacific Region Members, Commonwealth Front cover image: A View from New Zealand Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Shutterstock.com. Women and Equalities Page 33 Select Committee Steering Committee Members The Committee’s work in the UK and CPA Regional Secretaries Page 50 Page 96

th of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, where she started the Women’s WOMEN AND PARLIAMENT: 30 ANNIVERSARY OF THE Parliamentary Caucus, and she writes about increasing the numbers of LETTER TO THE EDITOR: MALTA GOVERNMENT women in Parliament in Pakistan. Response to an article published in The Parliamentarian COMMONWEALTH WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS Rt Hon. Baroness D’Souza (United Kingdom) was elected as Volume 99/2018: Issue Four received from Matthew Carbone, the second Lord Speaker of the UK House of Lords in 2011and Deputy Head of Government Communications, Malta: the second woman to hold the position. She gives her reflections on ‘I refer to the article, in the latest issue of The Parliamentarian, women’s empowerment and writes about the importance of education entitled Media Rights: The Battle for Press and Media in increasing political participation. Freedom in the Commonwealth by Lord Black of Brentwood. The Editor’s Note Hon. Dawn Butler, MP (United Kingdom) is currently the Regrettably, the Chair of the Commonwealth Press Union Shadow Minister for Women and Equalities in the UK Parliament and Media Trust singles out Malta a number of times through In 2019, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) This issue of The Parliamentarian features many contributions writes about finding policy solutions to increase women’s economic false claims which are not worthy of a journal distributed by recognises the many achievements of the Commonwealth Women from across the Commonwealth on women and Parliament that give empowerment in the UK. the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association to thousands Parliamentarians (CWP), established in 1989 as a network of women different perspectives from the nine CPA Regions. Rt Hon. Maria Miller, MP (United Kingdom) is the Chair of the Women of Members of Parliament. Lord Black of Brentwood states Members of Parliament spanning the nine CPA Regions who work Hon. Lindiwe Maseko, MP (South Africa) was the first elected and Equalities Select Committee in the UK Parliament and she writes about that it is unacceptable that the killers of journalist Daphne tirelessly for greater representation of women in International Chairperson of the Commonwealth the importance of the work of the Committee and its impact on legislation. Caruana Galizia still walk free. This assertion is not only Parliaments, and for gender equality in and across our Women Parliamentarians (CWP) in 2004 and Professor Sarah Childs from Birkbeck, University of London incorrect, but also defamatory. Commonwealth Legislatures. The network also seeks she writes about the history of the CWP and looks at women’s political representation in the UK Parliament and The undeniable truth is that the alleged killers of journalist to build the capacity of women elected to Parliament her reflections on the last 30 years of women’s questions if the centenary of women’s suffrage in 2018 will result in Daphne Caruana Galizia were, in fact, arrested within 50 to be more effective in their roles and to increase the representation in Commonwealth Parliaments. any significant changes in gender equality. days of the murder, and are now passing through Court awareness of all Parliamentarians of issues affecting Rt Hon. Harriet Harman, QC, MP (United Kingdom) Dr Lesley Clark (Queensland) is a former Parliamentarian and she proceedings with full respect to the rule of law. On the women and girls across the Commonwealth. writes about Commonwealth women in politics and the has recently been appointed as the Champion for the new CWP Alumni contrary of what The Parliamentarian article implies, the As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the CWP, progress that has been made across the globe from her Initiative. In this article for The Parliamentarian, she writes about women alleged killers of Caruana Galizia are not “still walking free” this issue of The Parliamentarian features many unique perspective as the current ‘Mother of the House’ supporting women in politics and introduces the Commonwealth Women precisely because Maltese authorities have left no stone articles by Commonwealth Parliamentarians and in the UK Parliament as the longest continuously serving Parliamentarians Alumni Initiative. Maurice Corry, MSP (Scotland) unturned with assistance from the FBI, Finnish and Dutch academic experts – women and men – that identify woman MP, first elected in 1982. She also references writes about male Parliamentarians as ‘agents of change’ and the role security services, Interpol and Europol. the many achievements of the CWP and women in Jeffrey Hyland, Editor the Women MPs of the World Conference which took that all Parliamentarians can play in gender equality. In a mission report by the European Parliament Committee Parliaments over the years and look at the significant The Parliamentarian, place in November 2018 and brought together women As a series of exhibitions and events are organised to mark the on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, dated 14th challenges that many women are still facing in the Commonwealth Parliamentarians from across the world in the UK 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage in Jersey, Anna Goodyear, November 2018, Europol confirmed that its strong campaign for gender equality across the world. Parliamentary Association Parliament’s House of Commons. Many Commonwealth Assistant Greffier of the States of Jersey takes a look at the history of presence in Malta and, in terms of results, even “clarified Across the Commonwealth today, only 18% of Women Parliamentarians participated in the conference Jersey women in politics. that the investigation did not stop with the arrest of the all Commonwealth Parliamentarians are women, far and a full report appears on page 68. Until recently, Norma Paris (Alderney) was the only woman Member three suspected perpetrators. Other layers are also being below the target set by the Commonwealth Heads of Government of 30% Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, MP (Uganda) is a former Commonwealth of the States of Alderney, one of the smallest Legislatures in the sought as this is an international crime having international female representation in Commonwealth Parliaments and Legislatures. Women Parliamentarians International Chairperson. She gives a Commonwealth and she shares her experiences of politics in Alderney. connections.” There are some success stories in the Commonwealth – with personal account in this issue of The Parliamentarian of her political and This issue of The Parliamentarian also highlights a number of other So, while Lord Black of Brentwood expresses his one Commonwealth national Parliament having over 50% female parliamentary experiences as the first woman Speaker of the Parliament events and activities. Hon. James Duddridge, MP (United Kingdom) disappointment at statistics which show that fewer than representation and three Commonwealth national Parliaments with of Uganda and one of the first women Ministers in Uganda. reports on Commonwealth Parliamentarians at the 67th Westminster 10% of all killings of journalists in Commonwealth countries over 40% female representation. However, there are some areas for Hon. Shirley M. Osborne, MLA (Montserrat) writes about women Seminar and their discussions on how to create effective Parliaments. have resulted in those responsible being brought to justice, concern with a number of Commonwealth Parliaments having few or and gender in Caribbean politics and reflects on both the successes Hon. Daphne Caine, MHK (Isle of Man) provides an insider’s he sees no reason to refer to Europol’s analysis about the no women Members of Parliament. It is therefore incumbent on the and challenges facing women in the CPA Caribbean, Americas and the guide to the CPA Fundamentals Programme for Commonwealth fact that this is not the case in Malta as a result of serious CWP network to share these examples of success and the initiatives Atlantic Region. Parliamentarians from CPA Small Branches after participating on the investigations. that have worked so that others can learn from them. This issue of The Parliamentarian features a number of articles CPA course in Canada. Likewise, the Chair of the Commonwealth Press Union The Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association that examine the role of women in Parliament and the work of the The Parliamentary Report and Third Reading section in this issue Media Trust failed to remark that this Government has (CPA) Executive Committee, Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP CWP network in the CPA Australia and CPA Pacific Regions. Hon. includes parliamentary and legislative news from Canada Federal, enacted a new media and defamation law which, among (Cameroon) in her View article writes about gender equality, women and Michelle O’Byrne, MHA (Tasmania) is the current Vice-Chairperson British Columbia, India, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, United Kingdom and others, abolishes criminal libel. In fact the Government of Parliaments and the challenges faced by women standing for election. of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians and Chair of the CWP Australia Federal. Malta in the past years has been intent on reforming and The Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Australia Region Steering Committee and she looks at the important In 2019, The Parliamentarian is celebrating its 100th year of updating various legislation which have been inherited from Parliamentarians (CWP), Hon. Dr Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, MP issue of working towards safe work environments in Parliaments. publishing and we will be publishing our centenary issue of the one Government to the other, including the Independence (Malaysia) examines one of the key issues that the CWP network is Anahila Kanongata’a-Suisuiki, MP (New Zealand) writes about publication in early 2020 to mark 100 years since the first issue. If Constitution itself. tackling – that of cyber harassment against women on social media women’s political participation in the CPA Pacific Region where a number readers have any memories of the publication that they would like to So, while Lord Black of Brentwood refers to criminal libel as with particular examples from Malaysia. of Parliaments and Legislatures have faced challenges in gender equality. share for an upcoming feature on the publication’s centenary, then “an abhorrent legacy of Empire” which makes public debate Hon. Anġelo Farrugia, MP, Chairperson of the CPA Small Former Commonwealth Youth Parliament member, Elise Delpiano please contact the Editor. We look forward to hearing your feedback and freedom of expression well-nigh impossible, he once Branches (Malta) writes about women and their participation in (New South Wales) provides a youth perspective on gender equality and comments on this issue of The Parliamentarian, on the issues again sees no reason to inform his readers that Malta has Parliament with particular reference to the Parliament of Malta. and writes about the challenges of increasing women’s parliamentary affecting Parliamentarians across the Commonwealth and to receiving precisely removed what he himself calls a harsh law which is The CPA Secretary-General, Mr Akbar Khan in his View article participation in Australia and New Zealand, based on the findings of your future contributions to this publication. not needed anywhere. writes about the successes of parliamentary gender caucuses in the her research report for Emily’s List Australia. Anna Watson, MP (New Reality is that the Maltese people cherishes the value of Commonwealth and their support for the work of the CWP. He quotes South Wales) gives a personal account of her experiences of being a Jeffrey Hyland freedom of expression and that this Government is committed a poster held by a female activist that said: ‘Without women’s equal woman in Parliament in Australia. Editor, The Parliamentarian to keep strengthening governance and media rights.’ participation, democracy is incomplete’. Meraj Hamayun Khan (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) is a former Member [email protected]

When women participate in elections as candidates - and as and child benefits policies for women are positively correlated with voters - decisions better reflect the electorate, and democracy is female participation in the labour force. Moreover, better access GENDER EQUALITY, WOMEN AND strengthened. However, women currently comprise only 22.6% of all to comprehensive, affordable, and high-quality childcare frees Parliamentarians worldwide. Three important factors deter women from up women’s time for formal employment. Women in leadership entering politics globally. Firstly, individual barriers impede women’s positions (like Parliamentarians) may also increase female labour PARLIAMENTS self-efficacy and empowerment. Secondly, government barriers force participation by providing role models for other women, and by include legislative and regulatory provisions that undermine women’s combating stereotypes. Also, women Parliamentarians can significantly participation. Thirdly, societal barriers include norms of patriarchy that change public attitudes towards women and, most importantly, raise View from the CPA Chairperson exclude women from participating fully in the public sphere. the aspirations parents have for their daughters and the aspirations These three types of barriers can exist in isolation, but they are more teenage girls have for themselves. often mutually constitutive and reinforcing and have discrete effects on women’s political participation. For example, electoral rules that fail to Gender mainstreaming in legislation Gender equality is achieved when women and men addressing discrimination or cultural beliefs that limit explicitly protect women’s access to political and electoral processes In 1995, gender mainstreaming was established in the Beijing Platform enjoy the same rights and opportunities across all women’s role in society, balancing private, family and often indicate deeply embedded social norms of patriarchy. Therefore, for Action as an internationally agreed strategy for promoting gender sectors of society, including economic participation political life, gaining support from political parties the barriers to women’s political participation in any society are often equality. Since then, the achievement of equality between women and and decision-making, and when the different and securing campaign funding. They may also face multi-dimensional, reflecting the complex interaction of cultural values men has become a major objective and integral part of the international behaviours, aspirations and needs of women and violence, harassment and intimidation. Some women and institutional rules. Overcoming these barriers necessitates not simply development agenda. men are equally valued and favoured. Gender may even be dissuaded from running for office, encouraging women to overcome them, or even changing laws and The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights equality is not only a fundamental human right, but a leaving men in the positions of power. practices, but also transforming the gender norms that underpin them. (ODIHR) in 2017, defined gender mainstreaming as “the process of necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and Change is possible if political commitment assessing the implications for women and men of any planned action, sustainable world. and adequate legal and policy frameworks are Women and social media including legislation, policies or programmes, in any area and at all While the world has achieved some progress put in place by gender-sensitive governments, to Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp levels. It is a strategy for making women’s as well as men’s concerns towards gender equality and women’s empowerment Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, mainstream gender into politics and provide a level and Instagram can facilitate the way politicians interact with their and experiences an integral element in the design, implementation, under the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), MP, Chairperson of the CPA playing field for both women and men. Moreover, a electorates, and vice versa, and have altered the communications monitoring and evaluation of policies and programmes in all political, women and girls continue to suffer discrimination Executive Committee and greater female representation in Legislatures and landscape in politics especially for women. Consequently, women who economic and societal spheres so that women and men benefit equally in all social institutions in every part of the world. Deputy Speaker of the National political decision making is more likely to lead to are frequently at a disadvantage when competing for time, financial and inequality is not perpetuated.” Moreover, the world is yet to attain the United Assembly of Cameroon greater public support and recognition. and other resources, have equal access to social media. Social media Following the above definition, national Parliaments are well placed Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5: ‘Achieving would facilitate the communications of female Parliamentarians with to champion the objective of gender equality and promote gender gender equality and empowering all women and girls’ Women and Parliament: being a woman child-rearing responsibilities and those in other societies where cultural mainstreaming in government. Parliaments aim to reflect society; in political representation and legislation. Speaker or Member of Parliament norms restrict their movement. hence they must reflect the changing dynamics of their electorates. A Nevertheless, women have made important inroads into political office As reported by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in 2017, Social media, particularly E-learning, is an excellent forum for female gender-sensitive Parliament is a Parliament that responds to the needs across the world, but their 23.7% representation in national Parliaments is throughout the 20th century, the number of women in Parliaments has politicians to improve their political education without displacement. and interests of both women and men. For example, gender-sensitive still far from parity - an indication that gender equality in Parliaments is still grown at a remarkably slow pace. However, that of women presiding Women politicians share information among each other faster and Parliaments can contribute to removing the barriers to women’s full a long way off and current progress is far too slow. Most Parliaments are over Parliaments - otherwise called Speakers or Presiding Officers - easier through social media. Most importantly, social media exposes participation in society, and empower both women and men to shape still heavily male-dominated. Even where women are present in greater has grown at an even slower pace. The Austrian Parliament was the women Parliamentarians and politicians to the limelight, who serve as their own lives and make decisions. numbers, glass ceilings often remain firmly in place. only one to have a woman Speaker before the Second World War.* role models especially for younger women and girls, empowering them The legislative process is a vital entry point for gender Women running for election face numerous challenges, such as, Between 1945 and 1997, only 42 countries had had a woman to make better choices about their lives. mainstreaming. Legislation has a direct and tangible impact on the preside over Parliament, the majority of which were located in Europe Unfortunately, social media has also brought new risks for female lives of citizens, and reflects in the most direct manner the needs and or in the United States of America. This trend is positively changing Parliamentarians, as they receive insulting or threatening comments priorities of various constituencies. The legislative process creates a in the 21st century as the percentage of women occupying posts about women’s ability and/or role. The cyber-violence against women platform for dialogue on issues that matter most in society and may of Presiding Officer in Parliaments has nearly doubled, from 8.3% in general, and against women in politics in particular, needs to be foster the expression of multiple voices and perspectives. Thus, the “Change is possible if political in 2005 to 15.6% in 2015. On 1st November 2016, the number of addressed by both the public and private sectors in order to raise legislative process presents an effective vehicle for the promotion of commitment and adequate legal and women Speakers reached a record 53 women, making up 19.1% of awareness and develop new codes of conduct that can better protect gender equality values and principles. the total. Women Speakers now span every area of the world, including legislators when interacting with citizens online. policy frameworks are put in place the Arab region, where the first woman became Speaker of Parliament *Olga Rudel-Zeynek (1871–1948), was an Austrian politician and journalist. of the United Arab Emirates in 2015.** Equality in the workplace She served as President of the Bundesrat (the Federal Council or upper by gender-sensitive governments, to Nevertheless, it should be noted that a majority of these women are According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in 2015, the house of Austria) in 1927–28 and 1932. She was the only women Speaker mainstream gender into politics and Deputy Speakers, who barely preside over Parliament, except in the participation of both women and men in the labour force is an important or Presiding Officer before the Second World War. absence of the main male Speaker. Women Speakers have enhanced social and development goal. However, marked inequality in the provide a level playing field for both Parliaments’ role in overseeing the work of government in the area of workplace still persists between the two genders. ** Amal Al Qubaisi (born 1969) is currently the President of the Federal gender equality. They also serve as role models for fellow women who Two major factors account for women’s low labour force National Council of the United Arab Emirates. She is first female leader of a women and men. Moreover, a greater aspire to top decision-making positions or desire to participate in politics in participation. Firstly, fertility significantly affects female labour force National Assembly in the Arab world. Before holding the position, she was female representation in Legislatures their respective countries. participation, because, each birth on average decreases women’s the Chairperson of the Abu Dhabi Education Council. labour supply by almost two years during a woman’s reproductive and political decision making is Women and Elections life. Secondly, gender-based legal restrictions in terms of weak or According to UN Women: “the percentage of women in national restrictive laws related to family, gender-based violence, and economic more likely to lead to greater public Legislatures has become a standard measure of a country’s opportunities, are most likely to impede women’s empowerment. support and recognition.” achievements in women’s political participation.” Conversely, educational attainment, together with maternity leave

The role of women Parliamentarians CYBER HARASSMENT AGAINST WOMEN ON in tackling cyber harssment against women on social media The internet has widened the incidents of harassment from offline to online. The SOCIAL MEDIA Convention on the Elimination of the Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) has interpreted the current trends of harassment against women through the perspective of the 21st century by considering cyber harassment as a type of crime. According View from the Commonwealth Women to the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), the Parliamentarians (CWP) Chairperson new General Recommendation 35, adopted in 2017, reaffirms the UN’s commitment to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and view to discrediting them and/or inciting other violations a world free from violence for all women and BlogSpot are some of the social media platforms and abuses against them, are a growing concern and girls and recognises the new forms of violence that have, to a certain extent, impacted women’s can be a manifestation of systemic gender-based against women and girls, as redefined “through life. The Malaysian Communications and discrimination, requiring effective responses compliant technology-mediated environments, such as Multimedia Commission reported that there were with human rights.” contemporary forms of violence occurring in approximately 41% female internet users in 2018. The Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender the internet and digital spaces.” Thus, women specific action to address cyberbullying. This proposed Act can be Acknowledging the advancement of technology, Equality (FEMM) of the European Parliament have Parliamentarians should actively participate in tackling this issue in used by the authorities to protect women, and also children. This is women have benefitted from social media adopted a draft report proposing measures to combat Malaysia. also in line with the statement of the Beijing Platform for Action, which platforms as they create opportunities for them. mobbing and sexual harassment, including online acts. In the case of insulting women on social media, the former Minister recognizes and stresses the definite role of the media in making a Nevertheless, social media has also been used to The move forges alliances in international, as well as of Women, Family and Community has advised the public to stop greater contribution to the advancement of women’s rights. harass women and girls. national, laws in addressing these issues together. condemning people especially women on social media. Similarly, she The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission The term cyber harassment is normally used to Hon. Dr Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, Within ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian added that nobody should condemn or insult images of women on reported in 2018 that there were 24.6 million social media users in describe types of behaviour which include acts to MP, Chairperson of the Nations), the ASEAN Commission on the Promotion social media. Malaysia with 97.3% claiming that they have a Facebook account, annoy, threaten, insult, exhibit malicious intent, post Commonwealth Women and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children Malaysian women Parliamentarians should continue to act together the most popular platform, followed by Instagram which makes up inappropriate comments, display offensive images Parliamentarians (CWP) and (ACWC) has also proposed reviewing legislation and in tackling cyber harassment and other issues against women. Women 57% of social media users. Hence, the establishment of law must be and cause a scare to a person. Such behaviours Member of the Parliament of legal enforcement on eliminating violence against and girls should not be the target of sexist remarks by ‘netizens’* sufficient enough to safeguard the public’s interests and to monitor have tendencies to encourage aggression against Malaysia. women which includes cyber violence. Taking on social media, including those targeting their children and family their activities on social media. women on social media. Cyber harassment has Singapore as an example, the nation has passed the members. Women Parliamentarians are equally not spared as targets Regulating the law on cyber harassment is designed to prevent been reported to affect women’s wellbeing and women are likely Protection from Harassment Act in 2014. The Act covers a range of when their physical attire and statements on social media are attacked individuals from making offensive comments especially to the ‘fairer to suffer twice as much harassment than men. Women also suffer self-help measures, civil remedies and criminal sanctions in protecting by internet users. Such aggression against women on social media sex’. The Malaysian government should adopt the UK’s (England, from mental health issues such as anxiety, trauma and depression women from harassment which includes cyberbullying. should not and would not limit the women Parliamentarians in voicing Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland) strategies in tackling cyber that can be linked to increasing social media use. The Malaysian Although Malaysia has no legal definition that relates to cyber their opinions and ideas. The alliance among women Parliamentarians harassment. In the case of Northern Ireland, the government has Communications and Multimedia Commission reported 356 cases harassment, Malaysia has nonetheless taken various initiatives in works as an enabler in steering and enhancing gender equality in regulated online bullying and harassment through Article 3 of the related to mental health issues in 2018. tackling this issue. Malaysia through the Malaysian Communications this country towards achieving the set targets and Goal 5 of the Malicious Communications Northern Ireland Order 1988 which There is an urgency to protect and secure women and girls’ well- and Multimedia Commission has implemented certain authoritative Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). states that sending a letter or other article (including an electronic being in this country. As such, there is a need to create awareness measures to prohibit content that is indecent, obscene, false, menacing The laws on cyber harassment should be seen as a tool against communication) to someone with intentions of causing anxiety or of gender equality and women’s empowerment. In addressing the or offensive in character with intent to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass racism, insults, malicious statements and all forms of mistreatment to distress to that person is deemed as cyber harassment. In addition, issue of cyber harassment in Malaysia, an analytical strategy has to be any person as stated under Section 211 of the Communications and women and girls on social media. Section 127 of the Communications Act 2003 was also amended to initiated to streamline a legal framework that supports women’s well- Multimedia Act, 1998. define improper use of public electronic communications networks. being legally. Along with the implementation of this regulation, Malaysia also Moving forward and conclusion The Malaysian government is currently looking into this matter calls for public awareness. There is a moral obligation that parents and The use of social media provides greater space for women to express by having strategic discussions with various stakeholders. These Strategies in preventing cyber harassment against women teachers are urged to monitor and to manage the usage of the internet their rights. This helps to create a positive image of women on social stakeholders are from civil society, non-governmental organisations, on social media among children. Malaysia encourages industry players and other media and strengthens the connection among women; thus, preventing industry groups, institutions of higher learning and schools. Such At the international level, the United Nations (UN) and European Union professionals, especially those related to ICT, to exercise the utmost condemnation and bullying from the public irrespective their gender. collaboration with the Malaysian government is intended to tackle (EU) have also addressed and recognised issues related to cyber responsibility in relation to online content. Education is regarded as the main tool in teaching society about cyber harassment issues in the country. These partnerships should also harassment. The legislation, regulations and resolutions by these two The involvement by a non-governmental organisation in highlighting the safety aspects of using social media. Citizens should be aware that be able to assist the government in curbing the challenges in regulating organisations were drawn up to protect and give security to women and cyber harassment in Malaysia is highly welcomed. Thus, the People whatever is being posted, and commented on, via social media, would the laws on cyber harassment. girls on the internet. The UN General Assembly’s resolution on protecting Against Cyber Threats and Harassment (PeopleACT), an initiative be within their own full responsibility. Statements made should not have It is an undeniable fact that social media has a function in advancing women human rights defenders (2013) states that “Information by the Malaysian Centre for Constitutionalism and Human Rights the intention to undermine or underestimate women and girls’ status in knowledge and information to empower women. Hence, appropriate Technology-related violations, abuses, discrimination and violence (MCCHR), has launched a campaign to increase public awareness on whatsoever manner. actions such as putting relevant laws in place are very much in line to against women, including women human rights defenders, such as online cyber harassment and cyberbullying. The absence of legislation to deal with cyber harassment has deal with cyber harassment issues. harassment, cyberstalking, violation of privacy, censorship and the hacking triggered the Communication and Multimedia Minister to cooperate of email accounts, mobile phones and other electronic devices, with a with the Ministry of Women Family and Community in proposing a *Netziens = Internet Citizens

human rights in all areas of life, from maternal and health services to record-breaking 64% of seats for women candidates, making Rwanda WOMEN AND THEIR PARTICIPATION education, equal opportunities and fair pay. Parliaments have a key role in the top country for women in politics in the world. The incredible progress legislating to tackle such discrimination and violence. was spurred by special measures, starting with the 2003 Constitution that set a 30% quota for women in elected positions, and the political IN PARLIAMENT Representation – Without women MPs who are empowered to parties adopting their own voluntary quotas for women candidates on contribute to the parliamentary process, any parliamentary deliberations party lists. In 2003, barely a decade after the genocide, nearly 50% of are missing a key component: the equal expression and consideration parliamentary seats went to women. After the 2008 elections in Rwanda, View from the CPA of the views and experiences of women. Considering the proportion of women made up 56% of the Members of Parliament. The number women in the population, and the contribution of women to society, lack jumped to 64% after the 2013 elections. In comparison, women make Small Branches Chairperson of equal expression and consideration of women’s views in Parliament up a global average of 23.8% of Parliament’s Members as of June 2018. renders the parliamentary process biased and, in some cases, redundant. In Malta, this debate has only just started, yet diverging opinions It has been a long way for women to get to where a representative in the local Parliament. It is also worth from both sides of the House have already been voiced. Gender they are today in the political and diplomatic scene. noting that the Deputy Speaker, as well as our current Scrutiny - The oversight role of Parliamentarians is linked to the very quotas have courted significant controversy, with critics arguing that The Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Head of State, are both women. notion of external accountability, the democratic control of the government they impose decisions upon the democratic process and perpetuate are celebrating thirty years of working towards With regard to Parliamentary Service staff, by the Parliament, among other bodies. Since gender equality improves the the idea that 21st century women need extra help to achieve success, the increase of female elected representatives the majority of employees are women. Out of 50 quality of democracy, parliamentary scrutiny should include scrutiny from a while proponents insist they are a necessary, albeit radical, measure to in Parliaments and Legislatures across the employees, 29 are women, with a considerable gender-equal perspective. This can bring about a fundamental contribution ensure better gender representation on a parliamentary level. Others Commonwealth and to ensure that women’s issues number of them benefiting from work-life balance for the achievement of sustained democratic practices. argue that the natural course of women’s political participation should are brought to the fore in parliamentary debate and measures, mainly telework. Furthermore, over the past be allowed rather than introducing mandatory quotas. legislation. I augur the Commonwealth Women months, the House has agreed to shift all its sessions What can be done to improve gender equality and women’s This conundrum as to whether the authorities need to intervene Parliamentarians (CWP) network at least another from the evening to the afternoon which benefits both participation in Parliaments? so as to increase female representation is a delicate one; any solution thirty years of success in their roles of improving the Members of Parliament and the parliamentary staff. The first logical solution is working to increase women candidates needs to be one which whilst being effective, respects the sensitivies awareness and ability of all Parliamentarians, male Hon. Anġelo Farrugia, without any interference in the system by offering practical incentives, of all those impacted by the decisions. I am confident, however, that and female, and encouraging them to take a gender MP, Chairperson of the Importance of gender equality in Parliaments enabling more women to run. However, when this does not yield in these efforts, the experiences of other countries will be looked perspective in all aspects of their role - legislation, CPA Small Branches and Gender equality in Parliaments is crucial for results, the introduction of gender quotas has often been posited. at closely in order to learn from both the success stories and where oversight and representation, thereby helping them Speaker of the House of Parliaments to function and legislate effectively, In Rwanda, the 2013 Rwandan Parliamentary elections ushered in a measures have not given the expected results. to become genuinely gender-sensitive institutions. Representatives of the to ensure the respect of the fundamental human In this celebratory issue of The Parliamentarian, Parliament of Malta. rights, and, indeed, to retain their legitimacy as truly I would like to take the opportunity to celebrate representative of their constituents. The role of CPA Small Branches Chairperson at Parliamentary Conference on the World the participation of women and ultimately celebrating democratic women in the democratic process was highlighted way back in the values, which, for those who have been here long enough know what a United Nations Convention on the Political Rights of Women of 1954, Trade Organisation as it addresses major issues facing world trade in Geneva struggle this can be. The Commonwealth is a community which varies enshrining women’s equal rights to vote, hold office, and access public in opportunities for economic, social and political change, not least in services as provided for male citizens within national laws. The 2018 Parliamentary Conference on the World Trade in the Parliamentary Conference on the WTO on behalf of the respect of the participation and inclusion of women. Organisation (WTO), jointly organized by the Inter-Parliamentary CPA. The CPA Small Branches Chairperson presented to the I would like to shed some light in the situation in Malta. On a general Legislating – Whilst gender equality is an issue that involves Union and the European Parliament, attracted more than 300 conference on the parliamentary perspective and the mobilisation note, women have been granted voting rights in 1947. During the last and impacts men and women, some legislation affects women Members of Parliament representing more than 100 countries of parliamentary action on trade, with specific reference to the years, we have seen improvements regarding gender equality and and men’s lives differently. Thus, Bills about certain issues (namely to the two-day meeting held at the WTO on 6 and 7 December Commonwealth and the CPA Small Branches. The CPA Small gender equity, reinforced in 2012 when Parliament enacted Act No. IX health, education, socio-economic and political challenges facing 2018. The participants discussed a wide range of issues, such as Branches Chairperson also highlighted the greater impact of of 2012 - Equality for Men and Women (Amendment) Act. There was disadvantaged groups) are more likely to be proposed by women. the reform of the WTO and the impact of technology on trade, and climate change on small states as an important issue in relation to a significant increase in female participation throughout the Maltese Additionally, the outcome of certain Bills can only be fairly reviewed issued an outcome document at the end of the meeting highlighting non-discriminatory, multilateral trading systems and the impact of workforce. This was enabled by the political will to make this leap, in Parliament if both viewpoints are considered. For example: in the the pivotal role of the WTO in strengthening multilateralism. trade processes on smaller jurisdictions. including the introduction of free childcare centres for all working UK House of Commons, there have been instances where Bills that The CPA Small Branches Chairperson, Hon. Angelo The CPA Small Branches Chairperson had also participated in mothers, together with an in-work benefit for women who are returning protect women – such as one preventing and combating violence Farrugia MP, Speaker of the Parliament of Malta participated the 42nd Session of the Steering Committee of the Parliamentary to full time employment including tax credits for women over 35 years against women – have been vehemently opposed by male MPs, while Conference on the WTO on behalf of the CPA, which took place of age and the extension of flexi-time, telework and reduced hours; and other men have campaigned for Bills that could harm women, such as in Geneva, on 5 October 2018. The Parliamentary Conference on an extension of local afterschool educational programmes. As a result, providing anonymity to men accused of rape. the WTO (PCWTO) is organised jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary female participation has increased by 16% since 2013. Malta has Union (IPU) and the European Parliament, and its Steering also achieved gender parity on the Judicial Bench. Female university Human rights – Gender equality is a founding principle of the United Committee met ahead of the 2018 annual session of the PCWTO. students have now outnumbered their male counterparts, resulting in Nations. Yet even today, many women around the world still lack equal The Co-Chair of the Steering Committee of the Parliamentary more female professionals in all sectors. rights and empowerment opportunities, and face discrimination in work, Conference on the World Trade Organisation (WTO) is Hon. On the other hand, Parliament remains one of the sectors which health care and education, and suffer physical and sexual violence (figures Mensah-Williams, Chairperson of the National Council of Namibia has failed to keep up, where only 14.9% of the elected Members of published by the World Health Organization in 2016 estimate that one who also attended the main WTO conference. According to Parliament are women, with most of the elected female Members on the out of every three women worldwide has experienced violence at the the rules of procedure for the Parliamentary Conference on the Government’s side of the House, holding a ministerial or junior ministerial hands of a partner, or sexual violence by someone other than a partner), WTO, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) is role. The youngest MP, who is also female, serves as Chairperson of the and this can also be seen in some countries of our Commonwealth one of the international organisations represented on the Steering Standing Committee for Family Affairs. As a member of the European family. Discrimination and violence against women are rooted in gender Committee and at the main conference. Union, Malta has elected four out of six women to represent its citizens stereotypes, harmful cultural norms and discriminatory legislation. Unequal in the European Parliament, one of whom gave up her seat to become social and legal statuses prevent women and girls from enjoying their Image credit: IPU/WTO.

Parliament of Mauritius, among the many areas of development way in proposing changes to the Standing Orders to ensure the PARLIAMENTARY GENDER CAUCUSES AND THE discussed with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, there representation of women in leading Parliamentary Committees. was an ambition to establish a Parliamentary Gender Caucus in There are many examples of the influence of women’s caucuses Mauritius and the CPA offered support to the National Assembly to in making significant changes to the way Parliaments operate COMMONWEALTH WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS AT 30 achieve this goal in March 2017. including the introduction of day care centres in Parliaments for At the launch of the Parliamentary Gender Caucus in Mauritius, I the children of Members and staff. ‘Without women’s equal participation, democracy is incomplete’ offered my congratulations to Hon. Santi Bai Hanoomanjee, Speaker 4. The potential for Parliamentary Gender Caucuses to influence of the National Assembly of Mauritius on her personal leadership and the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals is View from the 7th CPA Secretary-General determination to promote gender equality through the establishment of the significant given its remit. ‘To leave no one behind’ is the overarching Parliamentary Gender Caucus which provides a catalyst for the promotion ambition of the 2030 SDG Agenda and this agenda reaffirms gender of gender equality across the democratic institutions in Mauritius and also equality as a both a human right and a driver for development. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Patron of the our Legislatures. The network also seeks to build the for the implementation of the Sustainable Development Agenda. The demands of ensuring a vibrant democracy are extensive. The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) capacity of women elected to Parliament to be more The establishment of gender caucuses is a vital ingredient in success of the gender caucus will not rest solely on gaining support and Head of the Commonwealth, launched the effective in their roles and to increase the awareness of bringing greater equality between men and women in the daily from both male and female Parliamentarians, rather success will also Commonwealth theme of a ‘Peace-Building all Parliamentarians of issues affecting women and girls operations of Parliament as a democratic institution. The CPA, through depend on securing support for the work of the caucus and the issues Commonwealth’ in 2017, and in doing so, Her across the Commonwealth. the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) network and our it will address from across the political spectrum. There is always the Majesty explained ‘that the cornerstones on which In this context, Parliaments as independent international partners, is committed to promoting gender equality in risk of politics creeping in and shifting the attention from the positive peace are founded are, quite simply, respect and institutions, sitting at the centre of a web of Parliaments and increasing the representation of women in leadership gains to be made, to polarising political issues that are difficult or understanding for one another. Working together, we accountability reaching into the Executive and the roles. As one female activist I recently noted had written on a poster impossible on which to reach consensus. build peace by defending the dignity of every individual other branches of government, are well placed to set ‘Without women’s equal participation, democracy is incomplete’. The importance of identifying cross-party initiatives that all women and community. By upholding justice and the rule of an example and lead change by mirroring gender Globally, over 80 parliamentary women’s or gender caucuses have and men can support can also prevent gridlock. Justice Nasira Iqbal in law, and by striving for societies that are fair and offer Mr Akbar Khan equality and inclusion in all sections of our societies in been created since 1995 – support for such initiatives is incredibly Pakistan has attested that “20% of women Parliamentarians can make opportunities for all, we overcome division and find Secretary-General of their composition. This not only ensures participatory high, as is the growing acceptance for the inclusion of men within such a big difference if they take charge, instead of towing their party lines.” reconciliation, so that the benefits of progress and the Commonwealth decision making but engenders legitimacy and public structures, underscoring the need for men to be aware of and shoulder their Of course, one of Parliament’s fundamental duties is one of prosperity may be multiplied and shared’. Parliamentary Association confidence in our democratic institutions. responsibilities with respect to gender equality. There is clear evidence from representation – reaching out to all sectors of society is key. Engaging In my view, the work of the Commonwealth the experience of Rwanda and other gender caucuses that the inclusion of and gaining the support of civil society, young people and other key Women Parliamentarians (CWP) network, through So, what is the global picture and across the men has helped to avoid caucuses becoming marginalised, and indeed have activists in the work of any gender caucus will strengthen the message the CPA, and the work of Women’s Parliamentary Caucuses across Commonwealth in respect of female representation? contributed to them becoming a prominent institution within Parliament. and the aims of the caucus in seeking greater gender equality. our Commonwealth Parliaments and Legislatures, are a perfect Recent figures from UN Women show that although the number of There are a number of ways that the Parliamentary Gender Caucus The former UNDP Administrator and Prime Minister of New Zealand, Rt demonstration of the values expressed by Her Majesty that only women Parliamentarians has nearly doubled in the last 20 years, this can provide lasting change to Commonwealth Parliaments and the Hon. Helen Clark, has observed that it is not only the focus of Sustainable through respect and understanding and by working together, we only translates to around 22% of women in national Parliaments today, CWP has been at the forefront of this work over the last thirty years: Development Goal 5 on reducing gender inequalities and empowering defend the dignity of each individual and create fairer societies for all. or 9,000 Members of Parliament globally. Lamentably, only 18% of 1. Influencing Parliaments’ legislative priorities – the gender caucus women that is key to driving progress; but SDG 5 is also integrated across A core value enshrined in our Commonwealth Charter is the all Commonwealth Parliamentarians are women, leaving 82% who can play a pivotal role in ensuring legislation is gender sensitive, and the other 16 Sustainable Development Goals which reflects the growing recognition that ‘gender equality and women’s empowerment’ are are men. The need for action has been recognised by Commonwealth the legislation that advocates for gender equality is introduced in evidence that gender equality has a powerful multiplier effect across essential components of human development and basic human rights; Heads of Government who set a target of 30% female representation Parliament. In Rwanda, women’s caucuses have been successful in the spectrum of development whether through health, education, labour and that the advancement of women’s rights and the education of girls in Commonwealth Parliaments and Legislatures. passing legislation to end violence against women and in Kenya, the markets, and the other areas that will lower poverty and increase prosperity. are critical preconditions for effective and sustainable development. The results thus far are mixed with one Commonwealth national Women’s Parliamentary Association was instrumental in helping to Failing to address gender inequalities and discrimination against women will In recognition of the importance of this core value, the Commonwealth Parliament having over 50% female representation and three national pass the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting Act in 2011. hinder if not derail the achievement of the SDGs. Parliamentary Association (CPA) in 1989 established the Commonwealth Parliaments with over 40% female representation. There are 18 national 2. Women’s or gender caucuses have a positive track record in helping As Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Women Parliamentarians (CWP); a network of women Members spanning Commonwealth Parliaments with between 20% and 40% female build the capacity of women in Parliament. Through workshops, Association, I am committed to supporting the work of the Commonwealth the nine geographical Regions of the Association who work tirelessly representation. Of particular concern is the fact that 11 Commonwealth training and support, gender caucuses provide a safe space to Women Parliamentarians (CWP) network as we mark the 30th anniversary for better representation of women and gender equality in and across national Parliaments have below 10% women’s representation and two help upskill women Parliamentarians to be more effective in their of its establishment and recognise its many achievements. However, Commonwealth Parliaments have no women Members at all!* role as Parliamentarians in an often male-dominated domain. the work to build the capacity of Members to produce and promote The under-representation or marginalisation of women and other The Parliamentarian Women’s Caucus in Lesotho provided gender sensitive legislation, to work towards more gender-sensitive “In this context, Parliaments as independent social groups, including minorities and the disabled, is not only unjust and leadership training programmes to build the confidence of women Parliaments and to fulfilling the overarching goal of increasing the number institutions, sitting at the centre of a web of unequal, but also undermines the legitimacy of our democratic institutions. Parliamentarians and empower them to stand up and challenge of women Parliamentarians in the Parliaments and Legislatures of the their male colleagues and make their voices heard. The Uganda Commonwealth continues in order to reach our goals. accountability reaching into the Executive and So, what can Commonwealth Parliaments do to increase the Parliamentary Women’s Association (UWOPA) formed in the In the words of the former UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan: “there is the other branches of government, are well representation of women in their jurisdictions? 1990s and was instrumental in its lobbying campaign for gender no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women.” One example comes from the Parliament of Mauritius who have equality clauses in the Ugandan Constitution including provisions placed to set an example and lead change by established a successful Parliamentary Gender Caucus with the on non-discrimination on the basis of sex, equal opportunities for Mr Akbar Khan mirroring gender equality and inclusion in all support of the CPA Headquarters Secretariat. The requirement had women, a quota for women of one third for local government seats, 7th Secretary-General arisen following the elections held in December 2014 in Mauritius that and the establishment of an Equal Opportunities Commission. Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) sections of our societies in their composition. This saw only eight women elected out of 69 Parliamentarians, with the 3. Gender caucuses have enormous potential to analyse how not only ensures participatory decision making result that Mauritius had only 12% female representation, one of the gender sensitive our Parliaments are. Through this, changes can This article is based on a speech given by the CPA Secretary-General at lowest ranked countries in the SADC (Southern African Development be made to ensure that Parliament’s practices are gender equal, the launch of the Parliamentary Gender Caucus at the National Assembly of but engenders legitimacy and public confidence Community) in respect of the number of female representatives. and to ensure that gender is mainstreamed into debates and key Mauritius in Port Louis on 20 March 2017. in our democratic institutions.” Following a successful CPA Post-Election Seminar with the decisions made. Kenya and Uganda’s gender caucuses led the *Data from IPU National Parliaments database at 1 December 2018.

Right: The CPA Secretary- General, Mr Joint programme developed between CPA and McGill University to strengthen Akbar Khan met with a high-level skillset of Parliamentarians from CPA Small Branches wins industry award delegation from Maharashtra, The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and Procedure was first India at the CPA Fundamentals Programme in partnership with McGill University, launched in 2016 and is Headquarters Secretariat. The delegation was led by Shri Haribhau Canada has been awarded the Best Custom Program Award at the the first course of its kind. 2018 Conference on Management and Executive Development The programme aims to Above and below: Commonwealth Parliamentarians at the CPA Bagade, Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. The (CMED). The award recognises unique and innovative high-impact assist Commonwealth Fundamentals Programme (General) with the University of the delegation heard about the CPA’s work in the India Region and across programmes for their exceptional design and customisation. The Parliaments in building the Witwatersrand in South Africa. the Commonwealth especially its parliamentary strengthening work in programme content was adapted to the needs of participants by capacity of their newly- state and provincial legislatures as the CPA is the only Commonwealth McGill University’s School of Continuing Studies, which helped elected and returning organisation to work at national, state and territorial level. to develop the programme for Commonwealth Parliamentarians Parliamentarians, from the CPA Small Branches, a network of CPA Branches of by equipping them Right: The CPA Secretary- less than 500,000 people. The award was announced at the with: greater depth General, Mr Akbar Khan annual Conference on Management and Executive Development of knowledge of and Commonwealth Music (CMED) in Florida, United States. parliamentary practice Ambassador, Simon Haw launch The CPA Secretary-General, Mr Akbar Khan said: “The and procedure; increased the Commonwealth Music recognition of the CPA Fundamentals Programme on in-depth and practical Parliamentary Practice and Procedure with our programme knowledge based on Competition in Westminster. The partner, McGill University in Canada through this award shows accepted theories and CPA is collaborating with the the advances that this programme has made in meeting the international good practices; an accredited qualification from an Commonwealth Youth Orchestra CPA’s aims of advancing parliamentary democracy by enhancing internationally recognised university that will benefit participants and Choir (CYO) to use the arts knowledge and understanding of democratic governance. This for life during and after Parliament. as inspiration to deliver on the goals of the Universal Declaration on programme specifically supports our CPA Small Branches The programme is interactive and comprehensive, comprising Human Rights where competitors will write a song that reflects the and the CPA is in a unique position in the Commonwealth in online modules as well as face-to-face contact sessions on- values of the UDHR. supporting Members from national, sub-national, territorial and site with partner universities. This programme aims to develop provincial Legislatures in this way.” well-informed, skilled parliamentary leaders, who will go on to Right: Commonwealth Dr Carola Weil, Dean, School of Continuing Studies, McGill contribute to creating strong democratic legislatures that adhere Parliamentarians from the CPA University said: “The team at McGill’s School of Continuing to the principles of good governance. Isle of Man Branch and Tynwald Studies is honoured and proud to support Commonwealth The CPA programme is provided in partnership with two Parliamentarians and the CPA’s mission of advancing prestigious Commonwealth universities – the specialised CPA visited the States Assembly in parliamentary democracy. Thanks to the carefully calibrated CPA Fundamentals course for CPA Small Branches in partnership Jersey on a fact-finding mission Fundamentals Programme leading to the McGill Professional with McGill University in Canada, in the form of the Professional and they were welcomed by Development Certificate in Parliamentary Governance, under the Development Certificate in Parliamentary Governance, and Members of the States Assembly guidance of Professor Frederick Stapenhurst and Inna Popova, the CPA Fundamentals course (General) with the University of Above: In November 2018, the Chairperson of the CPA Africa and the CPA Jersey Branch. Director of Career and Professional Development Non-Credit Witwatersrand in South Africa. Region, Hon. Justin B. Muturi, MP, Speaker of the National Programs, we are able not only to offer an exciting model for Assembly of Kenya chaired the first meeting of the CPA Africa professional education, but also celebrate the value and impact For further information about the CPA Parliamentary Fundamentals Regional Executive Committee in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Right: At the end of a busy of the CPA/McGill collaboration to foster good governance and Programme for Commonwealth Parliamentarians please visit since his election to the position at the Regional Conference in bilateral visit to the UK Parliament positive change with the CMED Best Custom Program award.” www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpafundamentals. Applications open for Botswana earlier in the year. and CPA UK Branch, the Speaker The CPA Fundamentals Programme on Parliamentary Practice 2019/2020. of the Malaysia Parliament Below left: The CPA Secretary-General met with the Secretary- (Dewan Rakyat) Mohamad Ariff General of Parliamentarians Md Yusof met with the CPA for Global Action (PGA), Dr Secretary-General to discuss David Donat-Cattin during ongoing Malaysia partnerships & Human Rights Week as the CPA activities in the Region. parliamentary community marked the 70th anniversary Right: The CPA Secretary- of the Universal Declaration General, Mr Akbar Khan met with on Human Rights. The Hon. Anna Watson, MP from the two Secretaries-General New South Wales Legislative discussed potential Assembly in Australia at the cooperation on future CPA Headquarters Secretariat in projects for parliamentary London to discuss parliamentary strengthening and strengthening and the CPA’s To read an account of the latest CPA Fundamentals Programme for CPA Small Branches in partnership with McGill University, democracy. activities in the Australia Region. Canada by a Commonwealth Parliamentarian from the Isle of Man, please turn to page 72.

CPA Chairperson speaks about enhancing the involvement of Parliaments in CPA Chairperson at CIS Interparliamentary Assembly in St Petersburg: international human rights mechanisms at United Nations Forum on Human ‘Parliamentarians have a duty to hold governments to account on international Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law in Geneva humanitarian law’

The Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association The Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP (Cameroon) has addressed (CPA), Hon. Emilia Lifaka, MP, Deputy Speaker of the National the 48th Plenary Session of the Interparliamentary Assembly of Assembly of Cameroon spoke of the role of Commonwealth Member Nations of the Commonwealth of Independent States in Parliaments and Parliamentarians in international human rights St Petersburg, Russia. The CPA Chairperson was invited by the nd mechanisms when she addressed the 2 session of the United Interparliamentary Assembly and the International Committee of the Nations Forum on Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law Red Cross (ICRC) to address their conference commemorating in Geneva, Switzerland held from 22 to 23 November 2018. the 150th anniversary of the St Petersburg Declaration of 1868. The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human The 48th Interparliamentary Assembly was opened by the Rights (OHCHR), with the support of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Chairperson of the IPA CIS Council, Valentina Matviyenko, (IPU), organised the Forum on Human Rights, Democracy and Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation the Rule of Law to address the role of Parliaments as promoters and was followed by a report from the ICRC President, Peter of human rights and to share good parliamentary practices on Maurer. This was followed by an international conference on the ‘150 th Anniversary of the St Petersburg Declaration: Background these issues, including the existing and potential challenges for to the Adoption and Relevance for Modern Armed Conflicts’. Parliaments and ways to address them. The CPA Chairperson said to the conference: “We, as The CPA Chairperson said to the UN Forum: “The Parliamentarians, have a duty to hold our governments to account. Commonwealth Parliamentary Association has been developing There can be no greater decision for a government than to use force pay more attention to the law-making process, current trends and the ability of Parliamentarians to promote and protect human and to commit its men and women to the conflict zone. In order to fully international humanitarian law in their work. The CPA Headquarters rights nationally and regionally. As Parliamentarians, we all have a the Commonwealth Secretariat Human Rights Unit and the understand the issues relating to the laws of war, Parliamentarians Secretariat is working to upskill its membership in the field of international humanitarian law and is currently producing a new responsibility and a duty as representatives of the people and the Governments of Fiji and Australia in the margins of the UN Forum. need to stay up to date on legislation and developments related Handbook on International Humanitarian Law for Commonwealth voice of the voiceless in ensuring that human rights are placed at The 2nd session of the United Nations Forum on Human to international humanitarian law. We also need to ensure that Parliamentarians together with the British Red Cross, with the the top of the agenda in all aspects of our work, not only by ratifying our countries are party to international treaties which govern Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law was chaired by Mr Martin support of the ICRC and the University of New South Wales. international conventions but by making sure that our respective Chungong, Secretary-General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union and regulate the use of force and weapons, and provide for the humanitarian treatment of combatants once captured.” The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association regularly governments take a lead in its implementation.” and the Forum heard from Parliamentarians from Tonga, Bhutan, The CPA Chairperson stressed that Parliamentarians should engages with parliamentary assemblies and international The CPA Chairperson was accompanied by the CPA Secretary- Tunisia, Benin, Sweden, the United States, Guatemala, Kenya, organisations to develop new partnerships and cooperation General, Mr Akbar Khan to the UN Forum where they met with a France, Georgia and the European Parliament. in parliamentary development and the CPA Chairperson’s number of delegates to explore cooperation between the CPA, The CPA recently highlighted the key role of Commonwealth address to the Assembly reinforces these relationships. the UN OHCHR and many other international agencies. The Parliamentarians and Parliaments in implementing the human rights The Interparliamentary Assembly of Member Nations of the CPA Secretary-General also spoke about the importance of agenda at the launch of a new report titled ‘The Global Human Commonwealth of Independent States (IPA CIS) was founded elected Parliamentarians stepping up and democratising human Rights Implementation Agenda: The role of National Parliaments’ in 1992. The overarching mission is to create a common legal framework for the CIS and international cooperation. rights for the benefit of their citizens at a joint event hosted by together with the Commonwealth Secretariat’s Human Rights Unit The Interparliamentary Assembly is made up of national and the Universal Rights Group. parliamentary delegations and its Member Parliaments are: Azerbaijan; Armenia; Belarus; Kazakhstan; Kyrgyzstan; Moldova; CPA Working Group of Parliamentarians meet in London to review CPA Programmes the Russian Federation; Tajikistan; and Ukraine.

The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) has hosted an International Working Group of Parliamentarians in London, UK to review Commonwealth Parliamentarians congratulate outgoing UK Clerk of Parliament on the revised CPA Programmes Strategy and programmes activities. The CPA Working Group was chaired by Hon. Alexandra Mendes, MP, Vice-Chairperson over forty years of parliamentary service ahead of his retirement of the CPA (Canada Federal). Members of the CPA Working Group representing the Regions of the Members of the CPA Coordinating Committee met with the Clerk of the Parliament of CPA included: the CPA Treasurer, Vicki Dunne, MLA (Australian Capital the United Kingdom’s House of Commons, Sir David Natzler, ahead of his forthcoming Territory); the CPA Small Branches Chairperson and Speaker of the House retirement after a total of 43 years in the service of the House. The CPA Vice-Chairperson, of Representatives of Malta, Hon. Angelo Farrugia, MP; the Commonwealth Hon. Alexandra Mendes, MP, (Canada Federal); CPA Treasurer, Vicki Dunne, MLA Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Chairperson, Hon. Dato Dr Noraini Ahmad, (Australian Capital Territory); CPA Small Branches Chairperson and Speaker of the MP (Malaysia); Hon. Lindiwe Maseko, MP (South Africa); Hon. Clayton Mitchell, House of Representatives of Malta, Hon. Angelo Farrugia, MP; the Commonwealth MP (New Zealand); Hon. Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb, MNA (Pakistan). Women Parliamentarians Chairperson, Hon. Dato Dr Noraini Ahmad, MP (Malaysia) Members of the Working Group heard presentations on CPA Programmes and the CPA Secretary-General, Akbar Khan congratulated Sir David on his activities from the CPA Secretary-General, Akbar Khan and CPA Headquarters outstanding parliamentary service and thanked him for his many years of support for the Secretariat staff. Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, both in the UK Parliament and internationally.

‘We need to build a People’s Commonwealth for the 21st century’ says CPA Secretary- Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Post-Election Seminar in Grenada focuses General at Middlesex University Lecture on parliamentary democracy, Members’ skills development and gender equality

The Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Parliamentary The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Association (CPA), Mr Akbar Khan has spoken of the enduring has helped to strengthen parliamentary practice and procedure with a CPA Post-Election nature of the Commonwealth, which comprises a unique network Seminar for the recently elected Members of of peoples, civil society and Parliaments as he delivered a the Parliament of Grenada, held in St George’s Distinguished Lecture to a specially invited audience at Middlesex from 9 to 10 January 2019. The CPA Post- University in north London on 10 December 2018. Election Seminar gave Members of the House The CPA Secretary-General explored how the Commonwealth’s of Representatives, as well as Members of the networks, including the 17,000 Commonwealth Parliamentarians Senate of Grenada, an excellent opportunity in over 180 Parliaments and Legislatures of the Commonwealth to develop their skills and gain a better Parliamentary Association, mark the Commonwealth out as understanding of the parliamentary system and a uniquely constituted global player. The Commonwealth is democratic processes in other Commonwealth the world’s oldest political association and is unlike any other jurisdictions, particularly from the wider CPA international organisation, which enables it to justifiably claim to be Caribbean Region. Transparent, free and fair elections were held in Grenada on 13 March a ‘People’s Commonwealth’ which is democratic and diverse in 2018 with a turnout of almost 74% to elect the nature. and experience with Members of the Grenada Parliament. Senator new Members, which demonstrated the island’s commitment to the Hon. Alincia Williams-Grant, President of the Senate of Antigua The CPA Secretary-General, Mr Akbar Khan said: “The strength democratic ideals enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter. and Barbuda presented on the separation of powers between the of the Commonwealth into the 21st century lies in our shared grouping of peoples, businesses and civil society networks which The Parliament of Grenada is one of the smallest Legislatures Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary and on the impact of history and the remarkable genius of the Commonwealth to remain together constitute the Commonwealth as a unique international in the CPA’s membership of over 180 Commonwealth Parliaments parliamentary privilege on Members. Ms. Jacqui Sampson-Meiguel, enduring based on its inherent flexibility and agility to changing family and a uniquely positioned global actor. This breadth of and it is located on a small island with a population of 107,000 Senior Clerk and CPA Branch Secretary at the Parliament of Trinidad global circumstances. What is distinctive and unique about the perspectives allows for new and necessary conversations to take people. The CPA is the only Commonwealth body that works and Tobago demonstrated her extensive knowledge with contributions Commonwealth is its people-centred approach. People are not only place around issues such as global inequality, social and economic to strengthen small Legislatures as well as working with larger on the Parliamentary Committee system and parliamentary procedures. the beneficiaries of democracy and development but importantly rights, the importance of peace-building and climate change.” national, state and provincial legislatures. The Grenada House of Representatives also has one directly contribute to these outcomes as key actors and enablers.” The lecture was introduced and hosted by the Vice-Chancellor At the opening of the CPA Post-Election Seminar, Rt Hon. Dr of the highest representations for women Members in the “The strength of the Commonwealth lies not only in the of Middlesex University, Professor Tim Blackman who said: “We Keith Mitchell, MP, Prime Minister of Grenada highlighted that Commonwealth following the recent election (second in the he first became a Parliamentarian in 1984 and encouraged the membership of governments but significantly in its Commonwealth are delighted that Mr Akbar Khan came to talk to students and staff Commonwealth at 46.7% women Members) and the CPA Post- newly elected and appointed Parliamentarians to sharpen their at Middlesex University. We are living in very uncertain times and Election Seminar session on ‘Women in Parliament’ generated skills. He said: “Our role and function as Parliamentarians is not a lively discussion amongst Members on gender equality. Mr the CPA’s work to support inclusive and diverse parliamentary one to be taken lightly. It is a noble calling to be able to serve Adrian Francis, Clerk of Parliament and CPA Branch Secretary democracies across the Commonwealth has never been more our country at this level and it is important that we properly equip for the Parliament of Grenada as well as local Members from the important. Middlesex is a University that prides itself on its diversity ourselves to do the best job possible. For those of us who are Grenada Parliament also contributed to the seminar sessions. and internationalism. While our students study and live here seasoned politicians, it is important that from time to time, we The CPA Secretary-General, Mr Akbar Khan, who was they meet and collaborate with students and staff from over 140 take advantage of opportunities to sharpen our skills and broaden represented by Mr Jarvis Matiya, CPA Director of Operations at countries and develop a truly global outlook. These skills will be our knowledge base. For our newly elected Parliamentarians, the seminar in Grenada, said: “The CPA is pleased to partner invaluable to the ‘People’s Commonwealth’ that Mr Khan speaks of especially those with the advantage of youth, this seminar with the Parliament of Grenada to support the strengthening in his inspirational lecture.” provides an invaluable opportunity to get better acquainted with of democratic governance in one of the smaller Parliaments Middlesex University’s Distinguished Lecture series challenges, parliamentary procedures and expectations. I must express my of the Commonwealth. The CPA Post-Election Seminar has appreciation to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association stimulates and focuses on many of the ‘big picture’ issues facing demonstrated the CPA’s commitment to our Small Branches and for initiating this important Post-Election Seminar. It is almost society. These lectures look at the past, present and future of key to the mutuality of learning among CPA Members. We must always a decade since Grenada would have benefitted from such an seek opportunities to strengthen Parliament, nurture public trust areas in business, public policy, technology and learning and not initiative. It is timely, it is fitting, and we are immensely grateful.” in the institution and build the capacity of its Parliamentarians only deepen knowledge and understanding but seek to inspire and Hon. Michael Pierre, MP, Speaker of the House of through programmes like the CPA Post-Election Seminars.” engage us as free thinkers and contributors. Representatives of Grenada and Hon. Chester A. A. Humphrey, Following a CPA Post-Election Seminar, Members of Parliament President of the Senate, both gave opening remarks and chaired become more effective at promoting democratic principles To read the CPA Secretary-General’s lecture titled ‘Democracy and sessions throughout the two-day seminar. Hon. Chester A. A. and good governance as well as gaining an understanding Diversity: A People’s Commonwealth for the 21st century?’ please visit Humphrey explained that despite only one political party being of Commonwealth values and principles. Members of the www.cpahq.org/cpahq/sgspeeches. represented in the House of Representatives (or lower house), Legislature are also more confident and better able to discharge that there are many active voices within the Parliament through their parliamentary and constituency responsibilities. the Senate (upper house). He said: “Grenada provides a unique During the CPA Post-Election Seminar, the visiting CPA experiment in parliamentary democracy and this seminar provides delegation and Resource Team also had the opportunity to visit Members with an opportunity to become more effective in the newly opened Parliament of Grenada to see the modern promoting democratic principles and good governance. Members facilities and contemporary chamber. will become more confident and better able to discharge their parliamentary and constituency responsibilities.” For images of the CPA Grenada Post-Election Seminar please visit Regional experts attended the seminar to share their knowledge the CPA Images Album on Flickr: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr.

HISTORY OF THE COMMONWEALTH WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS (CWP) Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, the first elected CWP Chairperson reflects on the 30 year history of the CWP.

Background Conference, at which ANC At that conference, women One would like to congratulate women demanded 30% women delegates signed a petition the Commonwealth Women representation first in the National demanding representation of Chairpersons of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Parliamentarians (CWP) on the 30 Executive Committee, then women at the CPA Executive The first informal meeting of women Parliamentarians was held in 1989 at the 35th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference held in Barbados, years of existence and the strides cascaded to all its structures. Committee. This conference will initiated by Senator Norma Cox Astwood (Bermuda). For the first year, and for the part of the second year, Senator Cox Astwood acted as it has taken in its journey, having While women did not attain the always go down as one of historic Co-ordinator for the women’s caucus. In 1996, the group of women Parliamentarians within the CPA came into formal recognition as the been referred to as a ‘Group’ in said 30% at that Conference, epoch in women struggles given Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) under a series of appointed CWP Chairpersons between 1996 and 2004 when the first its inception and known as the however, they made a mark and that it resulted in the election of CWP Chairperson was elected. Commonwealth Women`s Group. (I were able to attain this in the ANC the first woman as Chairperson will later come back to this history). 1997 Conference. of the Association, that being • Hon. Lindiwe Maseko, MP (South Africa) – Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) from 2004 to 2007 While South Africa was one Subsequently, in 2007, the Hon. Billie Millar from Barbados. • Ms Kashmala Tariq, MNA (Pakistan) – Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) from 2007 to 2010 Hon. Lindiwe of the founder members of the African National Congress Following the election of a • Hon. Alix Boyd Knights, MHA (Dominica) – Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) from 2010 to 2013 Maseko, MP is Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference adopted the woman at the helm of the CPA • Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, MP (Uganda) – Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) from 2013 to 2016 a Member of the Association (CPA) together with resolution of 50% women’s leadership, this gave political • Hon. Dato’ Dr Noraini Ahmad, MP (Malaysia) – Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) from 2016 to 2019 Parliament of South Australia, Canada, Newfoundland, representation in all its will and enthusiasm for women New Zealand and the United structures and in government to want to achieve more and The Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) is elected for a three-year term at the CWP Business Meeting Africa and was Kingdom, it has done well in the and other state institutions. As a transform the gender perspective that usually takes place at the triennial conference of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP). The CWP Chairperson is the first elected area of women’s representation consequence of the strides made within the CPA. elected by the women Parliamentarians as delegates to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference. Commonwealth in Parliament. When South Africa through such conferences, South In 1997 during the 43rd Women attained its democracy in 1994, it Africa’s ratings on women’s Commonwealth Parliamentary organised in New Zealand, the Commonwealth Parliaments by attained from the African cultural mal-practices which give was rated at number 144 on the representation globally stands at Conference in Mauritius, the word name Commonwealth Group 2005. National Congress in South women an unfair disadvantage Parliamentarians index of women’s representation number 10 in the world index. ‘gender’ was for the first time was changed into the current It is perhaps imperative to Africa for the realisation of and prohibit their meaningful Chairperson (2004- in Parliament. Today the Inter- included in the preamble of the name, Commonwealth Women indicate that this was a resolution confronting gender challenges participation in society. 2007). She is also a Parliamentary Union (IPU) rates Evolution and genesis of Constitution of the CPA. In 1998, Parliamentarians (CWP) as an emanating from the Harare in the Commonwealth and These include the following: former Chairperson of South Africa at number 10 on the women’s representation in during the 44th Commonwealth organ of the Association. Following Declaration at a Commonwealth beyond. One such vivid moment • The prevalence of the index of women representatives in the CPA Parliamentary Conference these events, in 2003, I was Heads of Government Meeting which still reflects in one’s mind masculine model of politics the CPA Africa Region. Parliament. The early struggles for women’s elected as Acting Chairperson of (CHOGM) held in 1991. It is was the inclusion of men in the and of elected government She was the first The phases of the struggle representation in the CPA began in “The first priority of the the CWP for a period of one year also important to highlight workshops and other gender bodies, which feeds an woman head of the for liberation in South Africa 1989 from an informal meeting of new CWP Chairperson whilst the Constitution of the CPA that within the regions of the activists who were outside the environment where political Gauteng Legislature. and the milestones achieved in women Parliamentarians held at the was to look at how was being amended. Eventually in Commonwealth; the Pacific was parliamentary space. Certain life is organised according to different epochs of liberating 35th Commonwealth Parliamentary 2004, I was formally elected at the the most adversely affected interesting moments relate to male norms and values and She was exposed women from the protracted Conference held in Barbados in to devise a strategy 50th Commonwealth Parliamentary as there were then no women engagements which took place in some cases even male to politics during structural challenges of race 1989, initiated by Senator Norma to increase women’s Conference in Canada as the first elected in most Parliaments in in Tonga where male Members lifestyles. For example, politics the 1976 Soweto class and gender have laid the Cox Astwood (Bermuda). For representation in Chairperson of CWP for a three that region. We collaborated with of Parliament, the Nobles and is often based on competition Uprising, and played firm foundation, and remains the the first year, and for the part of year period (2004-2007). the Commonwealth Secretariat, gender activists were invited to and confrontation rather than bedrock to which I draw enormous the second year, Senator Cox Commonwealth the United Nations Development participate in the workshops. In on systematic collaboration a role in the ‘Women experience and the zeal to Astwood acted as Co-ordinator for Parliaments. The Early stages of CWP work on Fund for Women (UNIFEM) such engagements one male and consensus. Against Repression’ share and fight for the place or the women’s caucus. It is largely Commonwealth Heads women’s representation amongst others and conducted Member of Parliament held a • The lack of party support organisation in the representation of women within to her efforts that the CWP came The first priority of the new CWP workshops to intensify advocacy view that there shouldn’t be a in certain instances is of Governments 1980s. She served in the global political landscape and into existence and that the initial Chairperson was to look at how work for women’s representation challenge or impediment for characterised by limited the Commonwealth Parliaments momentum was maintained. Meeting agreed to devise a strategy to increase and gender equality and women to be elected because financial support for women leadership positions in particular. These milestones The turning point on the to ensure 30% women’s representation in awareness in those societies. everyone is at liberty to campaign candidates if any, limited in the Africa National which bear the seeds that women’s struggles in the CPA Commonwealth Parliaments. These workshops further for their own seat in Parliament. It access to political networks Congress (ANC) germinated in the Commonwealth was in 1996 during the 42nd representation in The Commonwealth Heads of enhanced my insight on gender was at this workshop that women and the more stringent Women’s League. women’s struggles include the Commonwealth Parliamentary all Commonwealth Governments Meeting agreed to struggles and enabled one to began to reflect on patriarchal, standard and qualifications 1991 African National Congress Conference held in Malaysia. Parliaments by 2005.” ensure 30% representation in all effectively use the experience social, political, economic and applied to women.

COMMONWEALTH WOMEN IN POLITICS: PROGRESS ON GLOBAL CHANGE Image: CPA/Nina Hollington Photography

The Commonwealth Parliamentary Rt Hon. Jacinda Ardern, MP. women come into Parliaments Association (CPA) plays a uniquely Now, Bangladesh has a we need to change the rules. important role in bringing together woman Prime Minister, Hon. Here in the UK Parliament in MPs who are from very different Sheikh Hasina Wazed and January 2019, we have finally countries with very different their first woman Speaker of voted to allow new MP mothers backgrounds, but who share the Parliament, Hon. Shirin Sharmin and fathers (and those who are same commitment to democracy Chaudhury, MP (who is also adopting) to be able to choose a and equality. And, more often than a former CPA International fellow MP to cast their vote for them Above: Commonwealth Parliamentarians gather for the 5th triennial Conclusion Parliamentarians remains an people would think and certainly Chairperson). Zambia has a while they are caring for their child. Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Conference in December Having taken a moment to reflect important vehicle of championing with women MPs across the female Vice-President, Inonge When I was elected in 2016, held in the margins of the 62nd Commonwealth Parliamentary on the path we have traversed the struggles of increasing Commonwealth, we find we are Mutukwa Wina and Minister of 1982, the UK Parliament was Conference in London, United Kingdom. to bring the question of gender women’s representation and Rt Hon. Harriet facing common problems. Finance, Margaret Mwanakatwe. 97% men. We are now 32% equality to the fore with the ensuring gender parity within the Harman, QC, MP It is 100 years since the first The past 100 years has • The lack of access to well- I must indicate that in my context of the CWP evolution, a Commonwealth and beyond. has represented the women in the UK won the right to seen nothing less than a “The past 100 developed education and experience as Chairperson of lot has been achieved, but there To this end, I would diverse inner-city stand for Parliament. And all around transformation in women’s legal training systems for women’s the Commonwealth Women’s are still more challenges that like to salute the women the Commonwealth, and indeed the rights, in our role in the home years has seen leadership in general and Parliamentarians, I have always lay ahead of us to dismantle the Parliamentarians who in 1989 London constituency world, women have fought to be in and the family, our involvement nothing less than for orienting young women observed that women who system of patriarchy. As such, had the vision and courage to of Camberwell and their Parliaments and to be in there in the world of work and our a transformation towards political life. emerged to power through First this requires a concerted effort fight for women’s rights and Peckham in the UK on equal terms with the men. participation in politics. It’s been in women’s legal • The lack of political will to Past the Post electoral systems of both sexes and the inclusion recognition of women within the Parliament since And women MPs are breaking a social, economic, political and promote women’s rights are not always in favour of a quota of all the stakeholders for the Commonwealth and beyond - down barriers. The late Benazir personal revolution. But it didn’t rights, in our role and women’s participation in system for women. These women confrontation of challenges Senator Norma Cox Astwood 1982. In 2017, Harriet Bhutto, Prime Minister of Pakistan, just come down with the rainfall. in the home and politics. feel that they have worked hard to facing women in Parliament and those women who were with became the longest was the first woman to give birth It wasn’t a natural process of the family, our • Conflicts and wars in different establish themselves in the political and those who aspire to be in her in 1989. All the Chairpersons serving continuously in office nearly 30 years ago and evolution – we had to fight for societies result in women as realm and that quota systems are Parliament. This should not be a until 2003 and elected the first woman Prime Minister in it. So, a massive pat on the back involvement in the serving woman MP, the most affected victims. to an extent unfair towards women rhetoric, it must find expression Chairpersons who succeeded the Islamic World. Following her for all of us women MPs. We are world of work and • The nature of some legislative who are already in power. in both legislation and budget me. One believes that we have becoming ‘Mother assassination in 2008, the women all pioneers. Though it is right systems, their rules and This could retard the promotion planning, and in the allocation capable women that will ensure of the House of in Pakistan’s Parliament set up a that we celebrate the progress our participation in procedures are not favourable of women’s participation in of resources for the process of that talking about women’s Commons’.* Harriet women’s caucus in her memory. we have made, we are still, as politics. It’s been a to women, including the politics. The other experience Parliament. election and representation will was the elected The caucus has spearheaded women in politics, striving to social, economic, starting times of House Sitting is that countries where political The current CPA eventually be a way of life and legislation strengthening the make progress in what remains which do not accommodate power was attained through wars, Masterclasses on gender not one to fight for, as men and Deputy Leader of rights of women at work, set up largely a man’s world. political and young family life. liberations and struggles, tend equality must be pursued to woman within Parliaments and the Labour Party rights commissions and run voter Once elected, a woman is personal revolution. • The nature of the electoral to do better when it comes to advance gender advocacy and beyond will continuously be from 2007-2015, was registration drives signing up expected to quickly produce But it didn’t just system may or may not equality and recognition of women integrate them in the curriculum educated and conscientised on appointed Shadow hundreds of thousands of women. results for other women and be favourable to women (e.g. South Africa, Mozambique, of our institutions of higher gender related matters. As a strategy it became a site of also faces bigger obstacles to come down with candidates. Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania learning. Constant engagement In my country we say “Wathint’ Deputy Prime Minister consensus building across party achieving that progress. the rainfall. It Having been convinced and to name but a few). One must with Heads of State within and abafazi, Wathint’ imbokodo in 2010-2015 and lines, and it involved their male A woman MP enters an wasn’t a natural enlightened through discussion, this indicate the fact that quotas are outside Commonwealth Heads (You struck a woman, you has twice served as colleagues too. institution where she is in a process of evolution particular male MP then committed meant to be a mechanism to of Government Meetings should struck a rock).” Forward to the Interim Leader of the Women in New Zealand were minority. Getting change in himself to assist one female redress an imbalance and must be encouraged and be held women’s struggle; Forward to the first in the world to win the an institution, when you are – we had to fight for candidate to campaign during also be coupled with capacity accountable to their commitment the Commonwealth Women Labour Party in 2010 right to vote in 1893. And now a minority, is hard. Women it. So, a massive pat 2012 elections in Tonga. Indeed, building mechanism, they may be of ensuring 30% women’s Parliamentarians!!! I thank you. and 2015. New Zealand has elected the remain invisible to Parliament’s the outcome of that campaign phased out when the set goal has representation in all Parliaments second woman Prime Minister to procedures in many ways. on the back for all of culminated in the election of one been achieved. of the Commonwealth. The have a baby while in office – and The rules have been made for us women MPs. We woman in Parliament. Commonwealth Women the first to take maternity leave – Parliaments of men and as more are all pioneers.”

women Members. Today, Nafisa Shah, MP told the men more than their women. And on tackling domestic violence, women make up just 24% of conference that in Pakistan the that this is the case in all sectors, and in particular the scourge of global Legislatures and remain list system had become the basis including those such as retail, which domestic homicide. We need outnumbered by men 3 to 1. of the very discrimination that we would not exist without women’s a major drive on prevention. In India, they are using a Girls’ challenge. “Our male colleagues work. Most women always knew Domestic homicide rarely Parliament to help ensure girls call such seats ‘charity seats’ and that pay was unequal but if they happens out of the blue. Public embrace the idea that politics remind women every day that they raised it, they were fobbed off, told services and agencies need the is for women too. The Girls’ are not the real representatives.” they were imagining it or - worse focus and resources to respond Image credit: UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor. Parliament is elected and has its Virtually all women MPs face still - labelled as a ‘trouble-maker’. to the warning signs. We’ve got Image credit: UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor. own PM and Cabinet. opposition to their participation By exposing the facts in each a Domestic Abuse Bill coming up Wherever we are, women MPs in public life. This ranges workplace, women are empowered in the UK. I am proposing we do all find challenges in combining from abuse online, to threats to demand change. It robs for refuges what we’ve done for our role in the family with our in person and threats to our employers of the ability to block international development and political responsibilities. We still families. Threats and violence change by denying the existence in that Bill set a legal obligation do the majority of looking after are a determined attempt to drive of the pay gap. It strips away the on the government to spend a children and elderly relatives. women out of politics. We all face abusing women who have the Above: Rt Hon. Harriet secrecy on which discrimination percentage of GNI every year on well argued for and justified takes Trudeau, MP “set the tone early for Some women MPs have a backlash, because, deep down, temerity to venture into public life. Harman, MP speaks in the UK thrives. Women employees will refuges. It would be a drop in the years to achieve. Women who the Government of Canada, when fewer children than they would the attitude of some is still: “Why There is still a reluctance among Parliament’s House of Commons be able to see if their managers ocean of the public finances but propose change will be criticised as he appointed the country’s first have wanted because of finding are women out there speaking women MPs to reveal the full extent at the Women MPs of the World are, year on year, making progress stability for a vital service. awkward, aggressive and abnormal. gender-balanced Cabinet in 2015. it a struggle to combine their in public? Shouldn’t they be at of the abuse and threats they - and Conference which brought to tackle the pay gap and at what In Uganda, where there is But women sticking their neck out It changed the conversation, and political duties with their family home looking after their husband? their family - are subjected to. We together women Parliamentarians rate. But it’s not just for women, a quota for 30% of leadership for change will always have the the quality of our legislation is better responsibilities. Some women Shouldn’t they be in the kitchen? fear that if we complain we’ll be from across the world. Please management and unions - it’s positions to go to women and 34% support of millions of women who, for it.” Today, women represent find that their husband struggles Why are they in Parliament?” seen as weak, only concerned turn to page 68 for a full report. for government to set targets for of their Parliament are women, like them, rail against unfairness 45% of the Senate of Canada. to accept their role in public The more women there are about ourselves, not about our each government department and they have passed a multi-agency and face discrimination in their own But women must remain in life. One MP at our Women in politics, the more misogynists constituents. But threats to women In Sierra Leone, they have run across the public sector, and to Domestic Violence Act bringing lives. We know it is not possible to the leadership of the quest for MPs of the World Conference feel under threat and respond MPs are not because we are weak a voter education campaign gear up the machinery to tackle the together courts, healthcare workers, make change as a woman acting progress for women in politics. in November 2018,** told us with greater abuse and violence. and they are not just unwarranted for women and Nigeria has gap in the private sector. councils and police to protect alone, it is the solidarity of women For men MPs there is a that her husband said she must Every time a woman MP takes attacks on individuals. They are an recently established a Women’s We need further progress women and to provide protection working together around the world, well-developed international choose between her marriage steps forward, there are people attack on our democracy. Caucus in Abuja’s National orders for survivors to safely leave inside and outside Parliaments, network, but that is not the case or her politics. Her choice was trying to push her back, so we Voters are entitled to elect Assembly. In Canada, they have “Voters are entitled their homes. They have also passed which has forced progress. for women. Most global summits politics but when she became have to be persistent. whoever they want. Once that passed the Gender Budgeting a Prohibition of Female Genital Women MPs around the world are male-dominated or even successful he relented, becoming Jessie Kabwila, the Malawian person has been elected they Act, which enshrines in law the to elect whoever Mutilation Act to outlaw the practice, are working together on a cross- men only. But there is now an happy to share the limelight. woman who spoke at the Women should be able to get on with their Government’s policy of applying a they want. Once punish offenders and place a duty to party basis through women’s emerging global network of In some countries, as soon MPs of the World Conference told job without threat or hindrance. gender-based analysis-plus lens that person has report on every citizen. caucuses to press forward our committed women who want to as the woman is elected she is us that any woman in Malawi who I think it is important that we say to federal budget processes, and Many Commonwealth countries demands, to undertake legislation work together for progress for expected to provide financially for all strives to break through the glass to ourselves and to one another introduced the Pay Equity Act – been elected they are bringing in tough new laws on to benefit women in our countries each of our countries and for all of her relatives in her extended family. ceiling is taunted with criticisms of that that is not something that bringing equal pay for equal work should be able to women’s safety and harassment - at and to drive women’s issues up the our people. Women in politics are Many women MPs find that the mistakes of the first woman we should just expect, or that is and legislated to make corporate get on with their home, at work and on the streets. political agenda. And we must win the new force for global change they are overtly discriminated Prime Minister, Joyce Banda, as normal or an occupational hazard. boards publicly declare who is on And in Parliament too - some the support of and work with men. and it is the CPA, and the network against – some have reported if having a woman Prime Minister We have to speak out about it, them, to increase representation. job without threat younger women MPs have reported Support of male MPs sympathetic of Commonwealth Women not being called to speak and not was a bad experience that shouldn’t because they are attacks not only In South Africa, the woman or hindrance. I think being sexually harassed by older to the feminist cause is invaluable Parliamentarians (CWP), together being able to sit on Committees be tried again: “it is not as if all men on us but on our democracy. Minister for Small Business it is important that male Members of their legislature. and there are growing numbers of with the committed support of the let alone chair them. They spoke have always done the right thing. When I was first in Parliament Development, Lindiwe Zulu, Canada, for example, has recently men prepared to back women in CPA UK Branch’s representative, of being criticised for their They have made so many mistakes, the political agenda was all “money has made it so that 50% of all we say to ourselves made changes to their labour political leadership. Where there Roberta Blackman-Woods, MP, appearance including having the but nobody says that no man should supply, motorways and mines.” We programmes in her department and to one another code to address harassment and is a male leader who explicitly which is leading the way. Happy ‘temerity to wear lipstick’. ever be President again. We need to handful of women were urged not go to women. Bangladesh has that that is not the Government has committed commits to equality of women in 30th anniversary CPA Women! In many countries, women plan for the backlash.” to ‘bang on’ about women’s issues legislated to include the mother’s £50 million for education and politics, it makes a transformatory complain that there is abuse In the age of the internet, or we’d be seen to be narrow, not name on children’s passports as something that we legal support for victims of sexual difference - not only are women *Rt Hon. Harriet Harman, MP is the and manipulation of the quota social media offers great part of the mainstream, not serious well as the father’s, and introduced should just expect, or harassment in the workplace. brought into decision-making but current ‘Mother of the House’ in systems designed to support opportunities for women MPs politicians. But we, women MPs, six months’ maternity leave with pay. that is normal or an We have learnt many lessons they are then supported rather the UK Parliament as the longest women MPs. This ranges to communicate with their insisted that there should be a In the UK, when the gender from this decades long fight. than undermined in their work. continuously serving woman MP, from men putting their wives, constituents and to campaign change in what is seen as the pay gap reporting provisions of occupational hazard. Change is possible, but it needs Canada has a male Prime first elected in 1982. girlfriends, mothers or sisters together. A woman at home with political agenda - that it should the Equality Act 2010 came into We have to speak resilience and persistence, because Minister, but one who specifically ** The Women MPs of the World into quota seats so that they a baby can talk to women all include maternity leave, and tackling effect in April 2018, no one could out about it, because it is never accepted with equanimity avows feminism. Hon. Bardish Conference took place in the House can control them to the example around the country. But social domestic violence, that we should carry on denying the extent to by those who hold power. There Chagger, MP, the first woman of Commons Chamber at the from one country where men media is also now a vehicle for make progress on unequal pay. which women remain unequal in they are attacks not will be backlash which is often Government Leader in the House Parliament of the United Kingdom themselves are occupying the misogynists organising against And this is happening the world of work. It was clear that only on us but on our very personal and threatening in of Commons in Canada said on 8 November 2018. Please turn to women’s quota seats. Hon. women, intent on threatening and throughout the Commonwealth. 8 out of 10 employers still pay their democracy.” nature. Change, no matter how Prime Minister, Rt Hon. Justin page 68 for a full report.

nowhere to work from. confronted with dilapidated health “MADAM, DO NOT SIT THERE, I was also told that I needed to facilities (e.g. at Nankandulo HC IV), return the official government vehicle where I found patients sleeping on to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. the floor and when I asked why they Resolving my transfer took about were on the floor, I was told that they THAT SEAT IS FOR THE MINISTER” three months during which time I had been ‘admitted’ to hospital. On operated under a veil of uncertainty. looking at the hospital beds, I saw A personal account of the political and parliamentary experiences I hardly spent a year in the beds with broken springs that did not of the first woman Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda Ministry of Works, nevertheless, even have mattresses! By the time, Parliament and one of the first women Ministers in Uganda. I had just designed an aviation I completed the tour, I was not sure programme to improve the airports that I had taken the right decision to and aerodromes in Uganda to represent all these people, the status Image credit: Adam Jan Figel/Shutterstock 790129573 In 1996, after the general elections, Minister of State, I was sent ahead President) and sat down. Very promote tourism and had just of health delivery was daunting! I was appointed as a Minister of as the advance party to oversee quickly, someone came to me and started a review of the Civil Aviation I was in for greater shocks when of a new girls’ secondary school learning and exposure. State, Regional Cooperation in the preparations. As Ministers, we informed me that the seat was Regulation when I was swiftly I visited the schools. For the first in my constituency, to assist the In the last 16 years, when I the Ugandan Ministry of Foreign were invited to receive the report reserved for the Deputy Prime transferred to the Ministry of time in my life, I saw school children children in the district to access served as Deputy Speaker and then Affairs. I had previously been a of the Technical Committee of Minister and that the hierarchy Parliamentary Affairs to manage the sitting on boulders (stones) and secondary education. Today, Kamuli Speaker of the Uganda Parliament, backbencher for the period 1989 the two states. I walked into the required that junior Ministers legislative and other programmes using their knees as ‘desks’ for Girls College has grown to national I have been active at the Inter- to 1995, in the National Resistance room and proceeded to sit behind sit very far from the Head’s in Parliament. This continued until writing (e.g. at Panyolo Primary status. Along the way, I lobbied Parliamentary Union as well as with Council. The Ministry was majorly the Uganda Flag; then quickly a Chair. Apparently, the sitting 2001 when after the elections, I School – Gadumire Sub-county the British High Commissioner several roles in the Commonwealth responsible for the Africa Region Protocol Officer from the host went according to hierarchy and was elected Deputy Speaker of in Kamuli). These students would to Uganda, Mr Michael Cook, Parliamentary Association. and the Middle East. country rushed to me and said seniority. Of course, no-one had the House, where I would serve for be expected to compete at the who donated £35,000 in funds I am glad that I was part of the The period in the early eighties “Madam, do not sit there, that seat guided me on this protocol! the next ten years (2001 – 2011) Primary Seven Leaving Exams with to construct a girl’s dormitory that lobby within the Member states Rt Hon. Rebecca to mid-nineties was volatile in the is for the Minister.” I told him that I went about my duties with before being elected as Speaker of students in the urban areas who sat accommodated over 200 girls; and I of the IPU that has contributed Kadaga, MP African Region, especially in the I was the Minister. Not satisfied, gusto, both in and out of the country. Parliament in 2011. at desks and had proper chairs. lobbied MTN, the telecom company, to significant steps being is the Speaker of Great Lakes Region, the return of he walked towards the Uganda I was not aware that my visibility and I also witnessed a signpost to supply 100 double-decker beds taken especially with regard the Parliament of the Rwanda/Diaspora triggering a Chief of Protocol, then Stephen exposure were making some of our Joining Parliament for ‘Iringa Primary School’ but for the girls. The Government to representation of women in genocide that lasted several days, Nabeta, to inquire if what I had leaders uncomfortable. Returning Being elected to Parliament in there was not a single building of Uganda came in to construct decision making. Notable is Uganda and a former the turmoil in Burundi when an said was true. Of course, the from a meeting of the East African April 1989, together with 39 other at the school only several large laboratories and some classrooms. the right to vote and stand for Commonwealth elected Head of State, Melchior Chief of Protocol confirmed that Community Council of Ministers women Members was an equally trees. I lobbied the then Chinese Many students have been able to elective office at different levels Women Ndadaye was assassinated shortly I was a Minister and the Head in Arusha, Tanzania, in April 1998, new experience. This was the first Ambassador to Uganda for funds access university education through in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Parliamentarians after taking office, the instability of the Uganda Delegation. He we had agreed to simultaneously time that Uganda had so many to assist in constructing some Kamuli Girls College! the election of several women and political upheaval after the then continued looking at me launch the Draft Treaty of East women in Parliament. We brought classrooms as well as teacher’s In the last 7 years, my campaign Speakers in the Arab World (e.g. the International overthrow of Mobutu Sese Seko, suspiciously until the end of the African Cooperation at 11.00 our professional experience to the accommodation at Iringa. I was and focus in addition to the above United Arab Emirates, Dr Al Qubaisi Chairperson. She then President of the then Zaire meeting. In 1996, in the East hours in Nairobi, Dar-es-Salaam Plenary – at that time we had no jolted into action on health and in has been the provision of clean amongst others) and most recently, is also the CPA (today the Democratic Republic African Region, women being and Kampala. As I was writing my Committees. Again, unlike today a few months, I had lobbied the drinking water to the communities changes in the State of Qatar that President Designate of Congo) and the invasion by Ministers was a novelty in the speech for the launch in the early where Parliament organizes an ‘German Volunteer Service’ which (with over 75 boreholes installed), have now enabled women to attain the Banyamulenge into Eastern highly patriarchal society. evening, a Cabinet reshuffle was induction and orientation for new not only rehabilitated some of the additional classroom infrastructure public office in Legislative Councils. as the host of the Congo amongst many others. At the local level, in Uganda, announced. I had been transferred Members, we were thrown in at major health centres (including to over 28 schools as well as the This was achieved in my tenure 64th Commonwealth This kept us Ministers of there had been only one other to the Ministry of Works as Minister the deep end; we had no role Nawaikoke, Namugongo, Kidera, completion of seven classroom as the Chair of the Committee on Parliamentary Regional Cooperation on the move foreign Minister, Princess Elizabeth of State in charge of Aviation and models, the last woman Member Nankandulo, Namasagali and buildings for three sub-counties that Democracy and Human Rights, as Conference due to to different countries, where our Bagaya of Tooro in the Idi Amin Transport (a hitherto non-existent of Parliament was Teddy Odongo- Kamuli Main Hospital) but also did not have any infrastructure at an Executive Committee Member leaders had instructed us to do some era in the 1970s. Therefore, my portfolio). I was in a dilemma, Oduka who had been appointed provided personnel (German Isingo Primary School, Namwendwa of the IPU and Member of the take place in Uganda preparatory work for their summits. appointment was a surprise even whether to proceed with our agreed Deputy Minister for Health. Prior volunteers) to manage them! sub-county; Nawankofu Primary Gender Partnership Group. in September 2019, At the time, my colleague Ministers to the people of Uganda. There plans as Regional Minister and to that, there were two women I also purchased seats and School in Namasagali sub-county; Within the Commonwealth, which will include in charge of the region were Col. was no induction for the Ministers; launch the Draft Treaty or abandon Ministers in the Amin era; Elizabeth desks for over 100 primary and Bulemezi Primary School in I had the opportunity to chair the 6th triennial Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, Minister we were sworn in and went straight the exercise. I decided to go ahead Bagaya as Foreign Affairs Minister schools. It was a small drop in the Balawoli sub-county. Enrolment the Commonwealth Women of Foreign Affairs, later to become to work. The work involved a lot of because the launch plans had been and Mrs Mary Astles Senkatuka ocean, taking into account the in each of these schools has risen Parliamentarians (CWP) Africa Commonwealth President of the United Republic of reading to understand the nature made in the three countries. When as Minister of Culture, but at the magnitude of the problem, but it from less than 100 to between 900 Region for 3 years during which Women Tanzania (2005 – 2015); the late of conflicts, relations, outstanding I arrived at the Ministry of Foreign time, there was no Parliament and was the start of positive action as a and 1,200 pupils at each school. the campaign for the enhancement Parliamentarians Hon. Nicholas Biwott from Kenya; commitments, of the different Affairs, the staff were equally therefore no role models for us. Member of Parliament. In addition, 2 years ago, I of women’s representation in (CWP) Conference. Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka, then a states that we had to interact with. downcast and uncomfortable and One of my first tasks as a newly These experiences inspired me engaged in the provision of decision-making in the African Minister, who later became Vice- My first experience of a did not know how to relate to me. elected Member of Parliament was to continuously lobby and speak television screens in over 20 Continent gained momentum. One President of Kenya (2008 – 2013). Cabinet sitting (then held each But we nonetheless went ahead to carry out a base-line survey, first in the Plenary about the need to villages to keep the community of the strategies was to identify the In late 1996, the Uganda Head Wednesday) was a bit dramatic with the launch, although my heart for the health facilities in the entire address the status of social services up-to-date and informed about countries with poor representation, of State, Mr Y. K. Museveni was as well. I entered the Cabinet was not in it. Because, the portfolio district, then comprising the five in my Kamuli Constituency as well current events; another 11 sets which were heading for elections due to undertake a state visit to room and saw an empty seat next to which I was transferred had no counties. I was so shocked and as the rest of the country. were donated to secondary within two years, so that the neighboring Kenya and as the to the Chair of the Cabinet (the budget, no office and no staff, I had nearly resigned as an MP when I was I also supported the construction schools to improve on their political and other leaders could be

engaged to facilitate the necessary Catholic in the national hierarchy! issue a Certificate: changes in the Constitution, the Another Member of the Party told (a) Certifying that the WOMEN AND GENDER IN CARIBBEAN POLITICS electoral laws, as well as the party me boldly that “the post of Deputy Budget Framework Paper structures. I have just returned from Speaker was enough for me” and is gender and equity Ghana in December 2018, where I should not expect any support. I responsive; and I engaged the National Leaders, reluctantly abandoned my campaign (b) Specifying measures Speaker of Parliament, the majority and waited for an opportunity after taken to equalise and minority levels to address the 2011 General Elections. opportunities for women, the appalling situation in terms of In February 2011, as soon as men, persons with women’s representation; they will the results were declared, I went to disabilities and other be holding elections after two years. meet the President of the country, marginalized groups. I also had the opportunity to serve who also happened to be the Party The other major achievement Above: Rt Hon. Rebecca as the Commonwealth Women Chairperson (National Resistance of my office as Speaker of Kadaga, MP gives a speech In the aftermath of World War and place, yet we seldom, if of party membership, they perform Parliamentarians International Movement Party) and briefed him Parliament was to enshrine in the at the 62nd Commonwealth II, clear that they had more ever, hear the names of any of low-level jobs as field and election Chair where I visited the CPA that I had listened to party advice rules of procedure a requirement Parliamentary Conference. than earned their right to the thousands of women who workers and campaigners that Caribbean Region, British Islands last time, but I was determined this that at least 40% of the leadership self-determination given their struggled and fought alongside seldom translate into leadership and Mediterranean Region, Canada time to vie for the post of Speaker of the Parliamentary Committees of belong to a political party, as do most indubitable contribution to the these brave and illustrious men. positions,” and that, “Even after Region (which has relatively good of Parliament. I also got a list of the House were headed by women. Members of Parliament, but I do Hon. Shirley resolution of that global conflict In a study of twentieth being elected to Parliament, representation for women) and parts the recently elected Members of This was after repeated requests to not agree that I should be part of a and the one preceding it, the century workers’ strikes in the women struggle to take leadership of West Africa, on the same mission Parliament and placed personal the Whips to nominate women and common-agenda to violate human M. Osborne, colonised peoples of the world United States, Karen Brodkin positions. In the last Jamaican of improving the representation of calls to each of them, congratulating they had declined and forwarded rights. I have also spoken out on the MLA is the current intensified their demand for Sacks notes the “difference Parliament, no Committees were women in Parliament at the heart of them and seeking for their support the names of 44 male MPs for the economic rights of the population as Speaker of the freedom from the manacles between leaders (usually headed by women.” the CWP’s work. for the Speakership in May 2011. posts of Chair and Vice Chair of the well as service delivery. Legislative Assembly and restraints of European men) and organizers (usually In 1901, Catherine McKenzie Indeed, the strategy worked and the Standing and Sectoral Committees! occupation and oppression. The women).” Political activity in the spoke to the People’s Convention Speakership Members unanimously backed me. During my tenure as Speaker of At the conclusion of her term as of Montserrat. She has British Empire’s Crown Colonies Caribbean, too, has followed Congress about women’s rights, I served as Deputy Speaker of the My opponent from the Opposition Parliament, I have been engaged CWP Chairperson in 2016, Rt served as the CPA Vice- in the Caribbean were just as this particular pattern so it is not and in 1936, Audrey Jeffers was Uganda Parliament from 2001 to received very few votes. I am the first in ‘skirmishes’ with the Executive Hon. Rebecca Kadaga wrote in The Chairperson, Regional adamant as any that they would at all surprising that historians 2011 (two terms). During that time, woman Speaker of Parliament in the and the Judiciary in my quest to Parliamentarian: “During the past three Representative for govern themselves, and Jamaica and commentators, even today, “‘Cultural attitudes I also undertook a Masters Degree history of Uganda. My re-election in promote the independence of or so years of my term as Chairperson became the first of them to wrest speak of the men named above Caribbean, Americas Course in Women’s Law at the 2016 also gave me an opportunity Parliament and the doctrine of the of the CWP, it has been a whirlwind its independence from Great as having ‘led’ their countries to and attitudes University of Zimbabwe. This degree to serve again as Speaker of the separation of powers. experience, and this has been so and the Atlantic Britain, on 6th August 1962. independence, in language that hostile to women course and the 1st Class Diploma that 10th Parliament. I have been dragged to court by because of the enormous task that Region on the CPA Less than a month later, on often seems to suggest that preceded it gave me further exposure One of the issues that took time my party in order to ‘tame me’ and we undertook, and we continue to Executive Committee 31st August, the Republic of they accomplished this feat very participating in about the law and its social impact. and leadership was to legislate for coerce me into compliance, first execute. At the 1989 plenary CPA Trinidad and Tobago was born. nearly singlehandedly. politics’ were cited I was so enthralled by the need a Certificate of Gender and Equity when the party Secretary-General conference, our founders resolved to and as the Regional The men who are credited with Women in the Anglophone to create awareness for women’s Compliance to accompany the ‘instructed’ me to eject the Members continue to discuss ways to increase Representative on the having ushered in this new state Caribbean are known to have as the second rights. I began by proposing to my budgets, policies and programmes of Parliament who had ‘rebelled’ female representation in Parliament Steering Committee are, quite deservedly, deeply been very politically active down most important senior, the need to create a Standing brought to Parliament. This was to against the party. The grounds for and work towards the mainstreaming of the Commonwealth revered in their countries and through the centuries although, Committee on Women issues in ensure that the budgets and other expulsion from Parliament are clearly of gender considerations in all CPA of great renown in the region argues Ann Marie Bissessar, barrier to women Women Parliament. The matter was sent to proposals are gender conscious spelt out in Act 83 of the Constitution activities and programmes. This and elsewhere – Alexander in Challenges to Women’s running for the Attorney-General for advice by and also equitable. It took 11 years and the ‘instruction’ did not fall within is the core of our task and it is this Parliamentarians Bustamante in Jamaica, Eric Leadership in Ex-Colonial my senior colleague; however the of repeated rebuffs in different it. When I declined, the Attorney- undertaking that has guided our (CWP). First elected Williams in Trinidad and Tobago Societies, “women’s participation political office in reply from the Attorney-General laws, until with the help of the General wrote to me to ‘direct me’ activities during the last three years. to the Legislative and from 1966, also Forbes took less conventional forms” the Caribbean. was that the Committee was not women’s caucus, the provision was to comply with the instruction of the We have intensified advocacy for Burnham in Guyana and Errol compared to men’s. Women Assembly in 2015, necessary, and that “if I had nothing enacted under the Public Finance Secretary-General of the NRM Party, women rights and empowerment Barrow in Barbados. took part in “urban crowd There still obtains, to do with my time, I should go to the Management Act, 2015. In particular, which I rejected. A suit was filed in throughout all the branches of the she has held various In much the same way that actions, organised campaigns in the Caribbean, Plenary and participate in the debate.” Section 9 which provides that: the Constitutional Court. Fortunately, CPA. In some areas like Seychelles, positions with the the former British colonies and petitions and undertook I am however, very happy that (a) The Minister shall, with the the matter went to the highest court new Branches of the CWP have been People’s Democratic around the world consider activities congruent with women’s a separate we now have an all-party women’s approval of Cabinet, submit in Uganda, the Supreme Court, opened during my term and we are their contribution to the identification.” Bissessar writes, ‘women’s culture’ caucus, that has been instrumental the budget framework paper which ruled that the Speaker of proud of this unique achievement. We Movement; The Girls’ outcome of the two World Wars “…generally, females were in crucial legislation. to Parliament by the 31st of Parliament could not be directed in were also able to formulate a strategic Education Project; generally underappreciated expected to provide ‘support’ that socialises and In 2006, when I indicated that I December of the Financial the performance of their duties. plan which is crucial cog for guiding and the Government and unrecognised, so this rather then participate in political channels males wanted to be the Speaker in the next Year preceding the financial I have also spoken out on the our activities. In so doing we have of Montserrat. Her writer argues, the contributions discussions…” Parliament, there was a rebuff from year to which the budget abuse of human rights of the traversed most of the CPA Regions of women to the political As recently as 2016, the and females into interests include within my party. I was told that my framework paper relates. Members of Parliament, the public organising workshops, seminars, development of the Anglophone United Nations Development very delineated candidature was disrupting the social (b) The Minister shall, in and other groups, much to the conferences and high-level dialogues sailing, travel, horses Caribbean goes, by and large, Programme (UNDP) found that and religious stability in the country consultation with the Equal annoyance of a number of leaders all in the quest of inspiring women’s and cricket. unrecognised and unrewarded. in Jamaica, for example, “While ‘occupational and as I was seeking to replace a senior Opportunities Commission, in the party and in the country. I do political emancipation.” The two are connected in time women often make up the majority other roles’.”

elected to the City Council of “There are, indeed, Trinidad and Tobago. More than two hundred and fifty women some areas of were present in Port of Spain in success for women May 1956, for the inauguration of the People’s National in the Caribbean Movement’s Women’s League Region though the and two women were elected as

Parliamentary representatives in gains seem ever Images: CPA/Nina Hollington Photography the early 1960s. so slow in coming. All of this notwithstanding, it still took the Republic of Trinidad A number of and Tobago almost fifty years to Legislatures in the elect a woman Prime Minister in 2010 with the election of Kamla Caribbean Region Persad-Bissessar. Jamaica did have examples slightly better, Portia Simpson- Miller having become Prime women’s rights and power, that “certain Commonwealth failure in the marriage mart, they of current or Minister of Jamaica in 2006. and on-the-ground challenges Caribbean women’s ability to could be primary school teachers, previous women There are, indeed, some Above and opposite page: The CPA Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic Guyana still has not elected to women’s organizing and embark on a collision course with nurse maids and such, but in any areas of success for women in Region held the first of two Regional ‘Hot Topic’ Forums in December a woman Prime Minister, and advocacy on questions of good patriarchal social ‘norms’ have to case, their access to education Speakers of the the Caribbean Region though 2016 on the need for increased women’s political participation for Barbados, after fifty-two years of governance.” do in part with British colonialism had the effect of enhancing their House, Presidents the gains seem ever so slow in the benefit of wider society. The first Forum heard from a number of independence, finally elected Mia In 1999, the Inter- and the loop-holes found within opportunities for engagement coming. A number of Legislatures distinguished speakers including: Hon. Shirley Osborne, MLA, Speaker Mottley in 2018. Parliamentary Union published that seemingly rigid system, outside the home. of the Senate in the Caribbean Region have of the Montserrat Legislative Assembly; Hon. Kamla Persad-Bissessar, The Commonwealth of findings that“cultural attitudes and its antecedents in more In the pre-independence and Ministers examples of current or previous former Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago; Dr Josephine Ojiambo, Dominica, on the other hand, and attitudes hostile to women contemporary times.” period between 1922 and women Speakers of the House, Deputy Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Secretariat; Hon. having become that in 1978, participating in politics” were Indirect rule was established 1950, writes Bolles, political of Government, Presidents of the Senate and Rayburn Blackmore MP, Minister of Immigration & National Security, elected Eugenia Charles as cited as the second most “to satisfy governmental and conversations in the region reflecting Ministers of Government, Dominica; and Professor Verene Shepherd, Institute for Gender & Prime Minister in 1980 making important barrier to women bureaucratic needs of the Empire centred on the form that the reflecting Caribbean women’s Development Studies at the University of the West Indies. The Forum her not only Dominica’s first running for political office in the by filling jobs usually manned by Legislatures ought to take Caribbean desire to undertake leading was introduced by Ms Siobhan N. O’Garro and the moderator was woman Prime Minister but Caribbean. There still obtains, low level English civil servants with and who might comprise women’s desire positions in political life and Hon. Alix Boyd-Knights, MHA, Speaker of the House of Assembly of also the very first woman in the Caribbean, a separate local ‘natives’.” These ‘local natives’ them. Furthermore, this new providing role models for young Dominica and former CWP Chairperson. Prime Minister in the Western ‘women’s culture’ that socialises were, of course, mostly male. and expanding class was now to undertake women who may be thinking Hemisphere. It is important to and channels males and females “In Caribbean societies, agitating for inclusion in the leading positions about entering political service. strongly encourage and support many instances, compared to its note that historians write that into very delineated ‘occupational indirect rule reinforced male political decision making of the Although the first woman other Parliaments in following neighbours. It is historical fact that Prime Minister Charles “was and other roles’. domination…thereby cementing colonies. Still, women were not in political life and who tried, failed to get elected in Grenada’s lead. the women of Grenada were active respected far and wide for her While Bissessar reminds a male stake in preserving the included in these discussions. providing role 1958, there has always been at It bears noting that, consonant in the political mobilization of the forthrightness, honesty, integrity in us that there is “nothing novel system,” writes Bolles, yet, she Under Crown Colony least one woman, in the eleven- with women’s universal tendency New Jewel Movement (NJM) that public office…” in the idea of cultural barriers also says, it was this need for Administration, politics and models for young member Legislative Assembly to downplay their achievements, ended the repressive regime of In the territories still under to women’s advancement.” a new local bureaucratic class decision-making was an women who may of Montserrat, and in 2015, Cynthia Gairy, who was elected Eric Gairey and his private militia, British rule, there have been She also surmised that, “… – civil servants – that opened essentially male-dominated that Honourable body elected a to the Parliament of Grenada in the Mongoose Gang, and Rhoda woman leaders of government contrary to popular belief, it is up the way for women to enter area. It continues to be so, today, be thinking about woman Speaker for the second 1961 and served for eighteen Reddock, a Caribbean academic, only in Bermuda, first in 1997, and not that women have been less public and political life. in independent nations and entering political time in a row. years, does not believe that her writes that the leadership then Turks and Caicos in 2016. interested in politics than their The social mobility of these Overseas Territories alike. When Another example is being the first was a catalyst of the Grenada Revolution A 2014 joint IGDS/IDRC male counterparts, but that, in fathers – low and middle level the Commonwealth Women service.” the Grenada House of paving the way for more was unmatched in its public report, Politics, Power and many instances they have been civil servants and professionals Parliamentarians (CWP) of the Representatives which has one Grenadian women to enter acknowledgement of women’s Gender Justice in the Anglophone deliberately sidelined.” like clergy – made it possible for Caribbean Americas and Atlantic on Women in Political Office in of the highest representations the House. “I truly believe…,” role in bringing about the revolution Caribbean, looking at five Interestingly, A. Lynn Bolles some daughters to enter a new Region met for their annual the Caribbean Region notes that: for women Members in the she asserts in Women and and that it extended an invitation to different Caribbean territories of the University of Maryland, place in society beyond the usual conference in 2017, Members “On average, 22% of Ministerial Commonwealth, with seven of Governance: A Grenadian them to participate in the “process finds“specific experiences posits that the British policy marriage and children. Daughters could not but comment upon the portfolios/Cabinet positions in the the fifteen Members elected Experience, “that the fact that of revolutionary transformation.” of female political leadership, of ‘indirect rule’ of its colonies, of the civil service families realisation that, of the seventeen Anglophone Caribbean are held following their recent election in Grenada … already recognised Even so, Grenada has yet to elect a uneven female representation even while having the effect of were sent to be educated members of the Regional CPA, by women. Across the region, 2018. This places Grenada as that its women could make as woman Prime Minister. at parliamentary and local entrenching patriarchy in ‘every in denominational religious there was only one territory women generally do not hold more second in the Commonwealth strong a contribution as their male So, if it is the case that ‘culture’ government levels (despite facet of public and domestic life’ institutions like their brothers also whose political leader was a than 30% of elected positions overall with 46.7% women counterparts was the reason for is the major impediment to Guyana’s quota system), limited did also at the same time, provide, were, so that they would make woman. In 2018, Barbados joined with the exception of Guyana” Members in their Legislature. my successive election success.” women’s inclusion and ultimate success with implementing “the necessary loop-hole for good wives following the rules the Turks and Caicos Islands and which operates a quota system, However, these are the Still, she might have a point. advancement to highest political national gender policies, women leaders and their activism of decorum of the middle class raised that number to two. and Grenada which clocks in at exceptions rather than the rule Grenada has indeed shown leadership in the Caribbean, continued struggles to address to enter the scene.” She argues British. Were they to encounter The latest UN Women report almost 50% women Members. and the CWP continues to itself to be in front of this issue in Americas and Atlantic Region,

and if it is that that culture is patriarchal in its deepest WOMEN’S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN foundations, and if we further, accept that the political culture of the Anglophone Caribbean is the also deeply patriarchal ‘winner THE CPA PACIFIC REGION take all’ Westminster model in which power resides – and is clenched – in the hands of the few – men – then we could not possibly fail to appreciate that, try as hard as they might, the women of the Caribbean, Americas and Tena koutou katoa. roles to provide support, their peers in the region. We Atlantic Region have a very tough I am privileged to be the Chair mentorship and inspiration to those also encourage the CPA as an ‘row to hoe’, as the enslavement of the Commonwealth Women young women who are emerging association to consider funding era saying goes. Parliamentarians (CWP) Pacific leaders in our communities. and constitutional measures that These are formidable obstacles Region. As CWP Pacific Chair, Coming together as the Pacific ensure the equal representation each one, ingrained, socialised, I am deeply concerned that the Region Commonwealth Women of men and women, MPs and inculcated, unceasingly reinforced Pacific Region (excluding New Parliamentarians (CWP) provides parliamentary staff, at all CPA by community, religious and Zealand) continues to have one a significant platform to share events and programmes. political leadership. They will not territories select and engage involvement and to experience and ambitions are evolving. of the lowest rates of female experiences and to discuss how The CWP Pacific Region is be easily shifted or circumvented, global influences and as their gender-specific harassment and Slowly, very slowly, but evolving participation in political life in the we have responded to challenges. committed to supporting women but they must be, and as long communities are urged forward by violence for daring to enter the nonetheless! One by one, here world. We have CPA Branches I am extremely honoured to be Parliamentarians from across the and difficult as might be the road them, their progress is inspiration political arena. Caribbean women and there, Caribbean men are Anahila that have no women Members the current Chair of the CWP region and taking practical steps to to women’s political – and other for their sisters in neighbouring politicians, too, find that they must joining forces in the struggle Kanongata’a- of Parliament – Papua New Pacific Region Steering Group encourage other women to follow – equality with men, the women territories and all are nudged often work twice as hard as their for women’s advancement. Suisuiki, MP Guinea and Vanuatu. Quota and to have the company of many in our footsteps and seek election. of the region are continuing to forward – brothers not excepted. male colleagues and be ten times People’s relationship to power was elected in 2017 systems and reserved seats talented women MPs in the CWP. push up against the strictures This, however, does not cancel as good if they are to enjoy any and tradition – and to traditional (temporary special measures) We can celebrate and be Women’s political participation and impediments they find in their out the territorial insularity that is real longevity. and adventitious power structures to the New Zealand have proven successful in a inspired by recent milestones in the Pacific Region political pathways and slowly, ever a major factor in a general lack That is a part of the regrettable – is also shifting so there are Parliament. She is number of countries around the being reached in Fiji, Samoa, the The average number of women so slowly, are making inroads. of communication across many reality that informed my premise glimmers and fissures and in time, the current Chair of world for women. However, we Cook Islands and Tonga. Despite MPs in the Pacific (Commonwealth In the Caribbean, Americas Caribbean territories and that for The Handbook for Political these will fully open. The light will the Commonwealth will need the support all genders the successful implementation and non-Commonwealth) is and Atlantic Region, the work continues to be a major impediment Women. My personal experience eventually flood through. and communities in the Pacific to of a quota in Samoa and women around 8%, the lowest in the world. of advancing women’s political for the Women’s Movement. and those of the women whose At this point in the region’s Women gain traction and achieve greater successfully taking on leadership International agreements such as participation is being carried “Nonetheless,” affirms Bolles, lives I researched into made history, at which political Parliamentarians women’s representation and roles in their Parliaments across the Convention on the Elimination out by indigenous entities and “women’s political groups use it impossible for me to ignore independence and national Pacific Region Steering political participation. We hear that the Pacific Region (Fiji, Tuvalu, of all Forms of Discrimination institutions specifically political interpersonal networks and other that. Under the subheading, The autonomy have no longer the Committee. Prior to women are also reluctant to elect Bougainville, Solomon Islands), Against Women (CEDAW), the and not, and the result is that strategies to circumnavigate the Importance of Being Good, I urgency of the earlier era, women – so we have much work there is a huge amount of work Beijing Platform for Action and there is now distinctly noticeable, Westminster model, out manoeuvre advise political women, whichever there remains this major hurdle entering Parliament, to do to normalise the concepts of still to be done. The CWP and the Pacific Leaders Gender a sense of empowerment on the status quo … and continue to their country of service that, of women’s equality and full, she served the women in Parliament and better CPA need to commit more to Equality Declaration all stress the part of Caribbean women do the extraordinary to get things and in what ways, we must “be unimpeded political participation communities of New tell our stories, in order for change supporting these CPA Branches. the importance of increasing the that is deepening, strengthening accomplished on behalf of women, deliberate and intentional about to be leapt, and as national Zealand as a Social to be accelerated for young and Following the recent CPA numbers of women in political and and expressing itself. As women children and men in society.” being better and doing better independence and autonomy emerging women leaders. Pacific and Australia Regional other leadership positions, as part continue to make up the majority However much Caribbean than has been done so far … Our were won and are celebrated, Worker and Senior The CWP, and its many Conference, graciously hosted of gender equality strategies. It is of graduates of the University women might circumnavigate and participation must be top-notch so will women’s independence Executive at Oranga partners working within our Pacific by the Parliament of the Cook generally agreed that having over of the West Indies (UWI), for outmanoeuvre and rack up wins … We must change the way and autonomy. If history is any Tamariki, the Ministry Region and beyond, have an Islands, we convened the annual 30% female representation is the example, and as the region is against ‘the system’ it remains political business is done, and not indication, they shall be. for Children. important role to play in keeping meeting of the CWP Pacific point at which there is critical mass being exposed to UWI’s Institute true that here, as elsewhere, be changed by how it currently is There remains a long way to the momentum up for sustainable Region. Travel costs and distance for progress on gender equality. for Gender and Development political women encounter being done. We must be good … go yet, possibly even a very long change. International Women’s continues to be a barrier to getting But of course, the CWP wishes Studies and the validation of difficulties and challenges at We must be good in every sense way, but the historical resilience Day on 8 March provides an our Regional Members together. to aim higher and have equal the United Nations Sustainable every turn. Whether campaigning of the word … We must each and will-to-thrive of the peoples of important opportunity for all men Members often need to travel numbers and also see that women Development Goals, and as or governing, they are held to a leave legacy that is unassailable.” the Caribbean presuppose – and and women Parliamentarians to for days by boat and plane in hold Cabinet and Parliamentary Caribbean women engage in a much higher standard and a much Reassuringly, as both women promise – eventual triumph for reflect on how much has been order to participate in regional Committee leadership roles. matter-of-fact manner in global more strictly enforced set of rules and men, and young and old its women, inevitable evolution achieved to increase women’s forums and meetings. We are In theory, there should be no movements such as #MeToo and than are their male counterparts. are enjoying ever-greater for its governments and certain political participation and the however, committed to enhancing obstacles to preventing equal the Women’s March, the shift is In too many instances, women access and are being exposed advancement for its people. significant work ahead. I believe communication through other participation by men and women beginning to make itself felt. continue to encounter virulently to more information and other that it is incumbent upon those means and to ensuring women in political and parliamentary As women in individual sexist responses to their people’s stories, perspectives who have achieved leadership MPs are not isolated from processes. There are no legal or

formal restrictions to women’s in Parliament and the country and such as Girls Take over Parliament, enter politics in the region. Many which focussed on institutional participation in national parliamentary to build female representation which have taken place in Tonga women who want to enter politics strengthening and capacity institutions in the Pacific today. in Parliament. Internationally, the and Papua New Guinea, with others find that the political, cultural building, women’s economic And it is not for lack of capability - Inter-Parliamentary Union has planned. and social environment can be empowerment, women in decision- traditionally, women in many Pacific found that 81 Parliaments have unfriendly or even hostile towards making positions and ending societies occupied high positions established some form of women’s Challenges them. In the wake of the #MeToo violence against women. and leadership roles in society. caucus. Niue, Samoa, and the Cook Women’s economic empowerment, movement, it has emerged that However, due to social, cultural and Islands have formed formal Women safety from violence, and political an astonishing number of women Looking forward economic barriers that have existed Parliamentarians Caucuses, in leadership are interconnected. Parliamentarians have experienced As a Tongan New Zealander I’m Image credit: Pacific Cooperation Foundation. historically and are still ongoing, addition to the wider regional It will take a sustained long term harassment and violence. This encouraged by a Tongan Hymn, there is a noticeable imbalance in network provided by the CWP. effort to break down structural affects women standing for “He ‘uke ha tuluta, ‘aonga kihe the representation of women in the The CWP Pacific Region wants barriers. Gender stereotypes Parliament, as much as women ha, ka tanaki e tuluta ‘e fonu e ipu Parliaments of the Pacific Region. to ensure that current Members are and a perception that politics in Parliament. A recent report on na, ‘o inu ai e fieinua.” What is the Our region also faces unique well-connected with one another, is ‘men’s work’ has negatively the experience of women who use of a single droplet of water? and immediate challenges, and with their communities, so that affected women’s representation stood for the 2017 Papua New When collected, it will quench including climate change, ocean they can encourage future Pacific in the region. Not only in terms Guinea election, found in addition the first of a nation. It will take acidification and rising seas women Parliamentarians. It is an of encouraging aspiring women to lack of funds for campaigning, all of our leadership to leave a levels, extreme weather, and exciting time in the region, and candidates but also in voter women reported receiving threats legacy that our great great great energy and food security issues, there are many activities planned attitudes towards women leaders. of physical violence and destruction grandchildren will thank us for. which can sometimes seem to in partnership with the CPA, IPU, While women play an important of property.2 A world of inclusiveness or not? eclipse conversations about UNDP and UN Women, with and vital role in Pacific culture, their There are encouraging Faka’apa’apa atu. gender sensitive Parliaments and the New Zealand and Australian traditional roles in political decision examples of Parliaments, political participation. The reality is Parliaments, and the EU. The making is often behind the scenes, governments, civil society References: nevertheless that we need women CWP and the Parliament of New which is not acknowledged enough organisations, communities and 1 Autonomous Region of Bougainville, at the decision-making table, a women has been successful in Above: CWP Pacific Region Chair, Anahila Kanongata’a-Suisuiki, MP Zealand has committed to running to garner the support needed for a other partners coming together Cook Islands, Kiribati, Fiji, Niue, Nauru, New championing the needs of women winning an open seat and in the together with the New Zealand Prime Minister, Rt Hon. Jacinda Ardern, regular mentoring programmes successful election. to promote gender equality and Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, and girls, in the context of global same year, a woman was elected MP, mark the 125th Anniversary of the Universal Suffrage in New to build connectedness, and in Despite a myriad of well- prevent violence against women Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, (Vanuatu). sustainable development and Deputy Speaker. Women now Zealand with other New Zealand Pacific Members of Parliament and these programmes, we link current intentioned initiatives, sadly, and girls. For example, the Tuvalu 2 Dr Kerryn Baker (2017), well-being for all. make up 10% of the total number special guests. Members with former Members and commitments to gender in the Parliament recently implemented Experiences of Female Candidates in Of the twelve Pacific of candidates in Bougainville and with young women leaders. I am region have been slow and often a National Gender Policy which the 2017 Papua New Guinea General Parliaments who are members we only hope to see this proportion the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. Increasing women’s also heartened by recent initiatives, women still lack the resources to set out a strategic plan of action Election, p.3. of the CPA and CWP1, eleven increase in the future. There is robust debate around participation in politics have elected women Members Another jurisdiction in the issue of reserved seats in Promoting and increasing women’s of Parliament. Some of these which legislation has helped the Pacific Region. Reserved participation will not be achieved countries have legislated seats increase the representation of seats are seen by some as a without clear strategies and reserved for women in an attempt women in politics is Samoa. In way to help women overcome priorities or without coordinated to rectify the gender disparity. 2013, Samoa’s Constitution the cultural barriers they face action across the Pacific Region. For example, in the Autonomous was amended to guarantee when attempting to be elected Strong networks such as this are Region of Bougainville there are that at least 10% of the seats to Parliament. However, others critical to the success of increasing three constituencies reserved in Parliament would be held by raise concerns that women will women’s participation. These for women only. These seats are women. In the 2016 election, find themselves restricted to networks are a fundamental way Image credit: Parliament of the Cook Islands. seen as an acknowledgement of 24 of the 164 candidates were reserve seats only, or that the to support women who are already the vital role that women played in women, a considerable increase women elected to these seats in decision-making positions and ending the civil conflict in 1998. from the five women that stood in may be regarded as ‘second rate’ seeking parliamentary election. The seats were strongly advocated the previous election. The results MPs. While there is support from They will ensure women in the for by women, who believed saw three female MPs were Pacific women MPs for reserved Pacific are aware of the ways in without them, women would be re-elected and a fourth woman seats, there is also opposition and which they can access any support, unable to win when competing candidate also won a seat. These a belief that they are unnecessary mentoring and encouragement against men. In the most recent four constituency MPs were as greater participation by women they need. election for the Bougainville joined by one additional woman is something that will happen of As noted by the United Nations House of Representatives, four Member to fulfil the constitutional its own accord as women take Development Programme (UNDP), of the 39 representatives elected requirement for there to be a on more political leadership roles. often women are a minority were women. Three of the four minimum of five women in the In Bougainville and Samoa, the within Parliament and there can women were elected from the Samoan Legislative Assembly. reserved seats have made an be considerable advantages in constituencies reserved for Legislation introducing special impact and are helping to change bringing women Parliamentarians women, while the fourth stood in measures reserving seats in attitudes that women can and together in a women’s caucus an open seat. This was the first Parliament for women candidates should be in politics. to work collectively on a shared time in Bougainville’s history where has also been considered by Fiji, vision to advance gender equality Members of the CWP Pacific Region at the 37th CPA Pacific and Australia Regional Conference in the Cook Islands.

partnerships between men and All TOWARDS SAFE WORK ENVIRONMENTS IN women to achieve this objective.’3 Members The issue is being recognised of all and steps have been taken to Parliaments identify strategies to address it need to be PARLIAMENTS globally. UN Women, the Office assured their of the High Commissioner workplaces on Human Rights, and the are safe and UN Special Rapporteur on respectful, violence against women, its and free from causes and consequences, in bullying and collaboration with IPU and the harassment. In this 30th anniversary year body, CWP must work with all Commonwealth, from social media National Democratic Institute As for Commonwealth Women stakeholders to ensure greater and attacks, threats, vandalism and for International Affairs, jointly mentioned Parliamentarians (CWP), it indeed safer participation of women. unfortunately physical violence organised an Expert Group this issue is important to celebrate our CWP Australia has initiated a such as the tragic murder of British Meeting (EGM) on violence has been achievements, assess our progress number of programs to support MP Jo Cox which is still raw in the against women in politics on highlighted Hon. Michelle and be honest about the challenges women including the Champions minds of many. But whilst we have 8–9 March 2018 in New York. I in recent that still face women as they seek for Change program and the CWP focused on the levels of violence, recommend all Members take the months in O’Byrne, MHA is to be elected or obtain senior and Alumni. We congratulate Dr Lesley intimidation and harassment that time to read the EGM report and Australia with the Vice-Chairperson leadership roles in our Parliaments. Clark in her role as the inaugural occur in communities through recommendations. many women of the Commonwealth The CWP, which is formally Chair of the CWP Alumni and the political and media process In Australia, we have been speaking Women a part of the Commonwealth look forward to growing women’s and against elected Members, forced to confront the issue out about bullying and harassment undertook to engage with each where women feel encouraged Parliamentary Association (CPA), networks to encourage participation we rarely examine our own of women being bullied and in their parties and in their Parliament and party to understand and safe to work. Parliamentarians works to encourage women to and build skills and opportunity organisations and workplaces. The harassed in the Parliament and Parliaments. what actions were being taken and We recognise that the culture and Chair of the CWP stand for election to Parliaments for women whilst in and post their 135th Inter-Parliamentary Union within their own party structures. Australian Broadcasting identify gaps and potentially best which prevails within political Australia Region and Legislatures across the parliamentary careers. (IPU) Assembly unanimously In recent months, this has led to Corporation journalist Jessica practice in our Parliaments. parties is central in achieving this, Steering Committee. Commonwealth, including identifying Whilst there are still well adopted a Resolution on ‘The media scrutiny of Parliaments Strutt posed the following question To this end, Australia’s CWP but the physical workplace of and working towards the removal recognised cultural, social and freedom of women to participate as workplaces as women have in an article published on 8 have formally written to each State Parliamentarians is not only their She is currently of barriers to participation and to economic barriers to women’s in political processes fully, safely spoken out about harassment, September 2018: and Territory Parliament along with electorates or constituencies but Deputy Leader of the ensure that women’s issues are participation and a challenge in and without interference: Building intimidation and bullying. This ‘As the list of Federal female the Federal Parliament urging that the very Parliament in which they Tasmanian Labor Party brought to the fore in parliamentary reaching leadership positions once has led some to take action such politicians who have either steps be taken to ensure workplaces sit. Recognising the obligation of and Shadow Minister debate and legislation. We know elected, it has become clear that as leaving their parties or the experienced or witnessed bullying are free from intimidation and Parliaments to be safe workplaces, that when women are empowered, running for Parliament is an option Parliament. The nature of the and intimidation in the workplace bullying for all Parliamentarians and we have also written to the for Education and the communities are empowered. It is to that many women do not consider Westminster system brings with continued to grow this week, a staff. We are still waiting on some Presiding Officers of Australia’s Early Years, Innovation the betterment of all our Parliaments attractive. This is due in part to the “Violence it debate and passion. Women key question remained — is there responses, but the feedback so far Parliaments to ask what steps and the Digital that we become more diverse. way in which the role is perceived against women have demonstrated their capacity any genuine appetite to tackle is positive. Parties and Parliaments they have taken, or could take, to Economy, Equality For our key target to increase and in response to the levels of to engage in what is often called the problem? The claims have no clearly desire to provide a safer better ensure a safe and respectful women’s participation, CWP has violence perpetrated against in Parliament the ‘rough and tumble’ of the doubt only further dissuaded more environment. From this work we aim workplace for all Members of and Women and an aim of achieving 30% women women in Parliament. or political parliamentary process. As women, women from entering politics — a to provide some positive modelling Parliament. Prevention of Family representation. However, the At an international level, the we do not shrink from that. But blow to a group already grossly and best practices to share. Violence. First elected current rate of participation stands United Nations Declaration on the environments is there is a difference between underrepresented in Parliaments at Given the current debate References: to the Australia Federal on average at 24%. The progress Elimination of Violence against not a new issue. robust engagement and bullying. both a state and Federal level.’4 about women’s participation in 1 Anna Hough, Composition of is gradual, far too gradual. Women provides the following Debate must be respectful, it As Chair of CWP Australia Parliaments and the environments Australian parliaments by party and Parliament between Some Parliaments and some definition:‘The term violence against In this new age should not be personal and women and the Australian Region’s in which they work, it’s critical that gender: a quick guide, Australian 1998 and 2004 and political organisations clearly do women means any act of gender- of social media, must be able to feel safe in their representative on the CWP current concerns are understood Parliamentary Library, January 2019. 2 subsequently elected better than others and it is worth based violence that results in, or is it can take many parliamentary workplaces. International Steering Committee, and meaningful action is General Assembly Resolution to the Tasmanian looking at their success and/ likely to result in, physical, sexual or If we are to address the low and as a long serving Member of undertaken. 48/104 of 20 December 1993, or barriers in this area. Australia psychological harm or suffering to forms across our levels of women’s participation in Parliament, I believe in the need for As Commonwealth Women Declaration on the Elimination of Parliament in 2006. currently stands at 36.4% women women, including threats of such Parliament we must examine our respectful Parliaments. We need Parliamentarians, our job of Violence against Women. During this period, she Parliamentarians. Across Australia, acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation Commonwealth, own environments. It is simply not more women in Parliament and we encouraging women to stand for 3 The 135th IPU Assembly Geneva, has served as a senior at a Commonwealth and State of liberty, whether occurring in public from social media enough to advocate for increased need to provide a safe and respectful election to Parliament is hindered 27 October 2016. Minister for eight years and Territory level, we range from or private life.’ 2 participation, we must provide an environment for them to do so. by reports that some women MPs 4 Jessica Strutt, Does the will 26.9% to 56%.1 Drill down a Violence against women attacks, threats, attractive work environment. We The issue of the treatment and staff may have been bullied and exist to end bullying and intimidation and as Deputy Labor little further and it is clear again in Parliament or political vandalism and must be responsible for modelling of women in Parliament was a harassed. This acts against the very of women in politics?, ABC News, 8 Leader since 2014. that some parties and some environments is not a new issue. an environment in which women significant agenda item at the most participation we seek to grow. September 2019. jurisdictions do better than others. In this new age of social media, it unfortunately would not only choose to work but recent CWP Australia Steering We need to ensure that As a non-party political can take many forms across our physical violence.” one in which they can be safe. Committee meeting where we Australia’s Parliaments are places

36 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue One | 100th year of publishing The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue One | 100th year of publishing | 37 THE CHALLENGES OF INCREASING THE CHALLENGES OF INCREASING WOMEN’S PARLIAMENTARY WOMEN’S PARLIAMENTARY REPRESENTATION IN AUSTRALIA REPRESENTATION IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND AND NEW ZEALAND

to mandate a minimum level of male counterparts. Female Cabinet YOUTH PERSPECTIVE: CHALLENGES OF INCREASING WOMEN’S female political representation, representation is even worse in PARLIAMENTARY REPRESENTATION IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND irrespective of political affiliation. parties that do not have affirmative Firstly, affirmative action action measures in place. measures have been implemented 1. Consider different mechanisms by both the ALP and NZLP, for selecting Cabinet positions. recognising that there are a series of History has shown us that we structural barriers that often prevent cannot wait and hope that the women from winning public office. passage of time will lead to more Across the Commonwealth, recommendations to improve the attention from the media and the In Australia, the ALP has women becoming frontbenchers. women are under-represented in level of female representation in our public because they are often still longstanding affirmative action Affirmative action measures Parliament. In my home country of Parliaments. To better understand seen as novel exceptions in politics. measures to ensure there is a higher should also be introduced at a Australia, a mere 34% of MPs are where Australian Parliaments could As the public are accustomed to level of female political representation Cabinet level to ensure women women. This disparity becomes improve, I travelled to New Zealand seeing men in positions of power, within the Party. Introduced 25 are being represented at the increasingly pronounced in higher to undertake a comparative study of women leaders are questioned years ago, the affirmative action highest levels of politics. political leadership positions. At their Parliament and party structures. about their deservedness and measures include a goal that 2. Ensure women are equipped Above: Former Commonwealth Youth Parliament participant from New the time of writing, only 26% of New Zealand was a logical competence to be in a leadership increases incrementally every few with a toolkit for Cabinet. South Wales, Elise Delpiano launches her research report ‘The Glass Australian Cabinet Members were choice. Apart from being position because it falls outside years, ultimately aiming to ensure Women need to be seen as Labyrinth’ on increasing female political representation in Australia and Elise Delpiano is women. In our 118 years since Australia’s closest neighbour, the status quo. This often leads to 50% of Labor’s caucuses across the serious contenders when Cabinet New Zealand with former Australian Prime Minister, Hon. Julia Gillard. the inaugural recipient Federation, Australia has only had New Zealand has a long history women political leaders facing a country are women by 2020. This is reshuffles take place. Changes of the Julia Gillard Next one female Prime Minister - Hon. of female political leaders. Rt higher level of personal scrutiny. enshrined in the Party’s constitution that could be made involve daunting experience of being a based off the experiences of both Generation Internship Julia Gillard, AC. Hon. Helen Clark was one of the Women are criticised on their and is actively pursued. providing more funding and candidate. Australia and New Zealand. with EMILY’s List Australia is not alone in its country’s longest serving Prime choice of clothing, hairstyle, the In New Zealand, the NZLP opportunities for continuing each 4. Consider the state of electoral Thankfully, there are already Australia. Elise studied sluggish pace towards gender- Ministers. In 1999, the two major need to wear more or less make- has also introduced a percentage MP’s professional development, funding laws to see how we various initiatives in place Law and International balanced Parliaments, with the candidates for Prime Minister were up, their marital status, whether goal aimed at increasing female implementing capabilities audits can better support women. across the Commonwealth Relations and this slow progress towards improving women. Rt Hon. Jacinda Ardern is they have children or not, and representation. From the 2014 to identify MPs’ strengths and Throughout my interviews, that are working to foster an year, she starts work female political representation New Zealand’s third female Prime their sexual orientation. This focus election, the Party’s Moderating areas needed for improvement, women regularly raised with understanding of the importance in the legal profession. seen across the Commonwealth Minister. She is also the second on factors irrelevant to political Committee was bound to determine and rethinking the way positions me that they were unable to of gender equality in our and more broadly across the world. sitting Prime Minister anywhere performance acts as a mechanism a List order that ensured the elected on Select Committees are use campaign funds to hire Parliaments. One such initiative Elise represented the For example, the number of in the world to have a child that hinders female progress, caucus would compromise of at allocated to allow women to gain some level of childcare during is the Commonwealth Women Parliament of New female world leaders at last year’s while in office. (The first woman and can prevent other women least 45% women. This percentage experience in key areas outside campaign hours. Many female Parliamentarians (CWP), whose South Wales at the G20 was the lowest it has been Parliamentarian to have a child from considering to run for public increased to 50% in 2017 and their pre-parliamentary area of candidates are unable to afford important work over the past 30 th 8 Commonwealth of any G20 summit since 2010. while in office was Prime Minister of office due to the intense personal applies for all subsequent elections. expertise. Women already bring a this, especially considering years should be commended. Youth Parliament (CYP) This shows that the path to gender Pakistan, Benazir Bhutto in 1990). scrutiny that women in political This goal was also enshrined in the wealth of experience with them to many have to quit their job to Through my research and in British Columbia, equality, particularly in political Last year, the World Economic office are subject to. Party’s constitution. Parliament. But these measures become a candidate. If we want these recommendations, I hope Canada, and was elected leadership positions, is not linear. Forum found that New Zealand Secondly, the type of electoral These affirmative action will ensure that women cannot be more young women to run for to create a conversation around as the Leader of the Striving to achieve gender equality also has a higher level of political system can hinder the level of female measures need to be implemented questioned on the basis of lack of Parliament, we need to make what we can do to make politics Opposition. The 8th CYP is an ongoing task that we all must empowerment than Australia, with representation. Mixed member and followed, otherwise they will experience for promotion to senior sure they have the framework to a more welcoming place for was the first time that focus on. It is not something that significantly more progress made proportional systems (MMP) are not achieve the desired outcome. Cabinet positions. allow these candidates to access women. the Youth Parliament will happen without a concerted towards closing the gender gap and generally viewed to facilitate higher Loose ‘targets’ tend to have a 3. Introduce a formal mentoring funds that support childcare. was female-led, with effort to ensure our Parliaments more female MPs in their Parliament. levels of female representation, similar problem. Thankfully, both program for female candidates. References: are more equal. Over several months last year, I whereas single member district the ALP and NZLP have already Women need support when Conclusion • My full report can be found here: both the Premier, This year, I was the inaugural spoke to current and former female systems (SMD) are the opposite. begun actively pursuing their running for office. At present, While there has been substantial https://www.emilyslist.org.au/ Deputy Premier and Julia Gillard Next Generation ALP and New Zealand Labour SMD means only one candidate constitutional goals for increasing there are few, if any, formalised progress in female political wp-content/uploads/2018/09/ Leader of the Opposition Intern, a new internship program (NZLP) MPs and Party members, is chosen, which historically has female representation. By last year, mentoring systems offered for representation in Australia, there JGNGI-report-2018-WEB- being young women. created by EMILY’s List Australia asking them about their personal excluded women and minorities. the ALP’s federal caucus and the female candidates. Informal is still a long way to go. Australia FINALindd.pdf. Elise then represented and sponsored by the Australian experiences and perceptions of New Zealand has a MMP system, NZLP both had 46% women MPs. mentoring has no checks. shares many of the same challenges • The Glass Labyrinth: http:// th the 8 CYP at the Workers’ Union. EMILY’s List women in public office. while Australian jurisdictions have a While there has been substantial Throughout my research, many facing the level of female political www.law.unsw.edu.au/ 63rd Commonwealth Australia is an organisation that combination of systems. progress in increasing female female candidates recounted representation in other Legislatures news/2018/09/elise-delpiano- Parliamentary seeks to get progressive, female Issues women face in political representation in Australia, how their mentoring experience around the world. first-julia-gillard-intern-releases- Conference in Australian Labor Party (ALP) seeking public office Solutions there is still much to be done. didn’t work out and they weren’t Each Legislature across the research-report-glass-labyrinth. Bangladesh in 2017, women elected to Parliaments There were several common In Australia and New Zealand, sure who to turn to when Commonwealth has its own • For more information on the Julia facilitating a youth across the country. themes affecting women in attempts to improve female Recommendations this happened. Formalising electoral system and particular Gillard Next Generation Internship: roundtable on the The purpose of my internship public office across the Tasman. political representation have Despite the ALP’s female a framework where every nuances that makes a blanket https://www.emilyslist.org.au/ was to conduct research to better Firstly, women are often treated been the focus of particular representation approaching 50% female candidate receives an solution impractical. Rather, there jgngi_2019_eoi. political involvement understand the barriers women face differently in the public sphere. political parties, rather than the at state and federal levels, female experienced mentor will ensure are various ways in which we can of young people in the in seeking to run for public office in Female leaders are subject to legislature as a whole. In other MPs are not being promoted to that women are supported seek to improve female political Commonwealth. Australia, with the purpose of giving a disproportionate amount of countries, laws have been passed Cabinet at the same rate as their throughout the new and often representation in our Parliaments

A PERSONAL VIEW: MY EXPERIENCES OF BEING A The Parliament of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia. WOMAN IN PARLIAMENT IN AUSTRALIA

On 9th October 2012, Hon. Julia than women, is that a bad thing? Member of the New South Gillard, MP, the then Member of What if men are by physiology Wales Parliament, I am assessed the Australian Federal Parliament or temperament, more adapted daily on my choice of clothing, for Lalor and the first female to exercise authority or to issue my hair and whether I have an Australian Prime Minister, gave command?’ This is the same man, agreeable demeanour. For men a powerful speech in response who today says that people who in politics, their ambition has to a motion raised by Hon. Tony hold sexist views and who are them categorised as ‘leaders’. Abbott, MP, the then Member misogynists are not appropriate For women, we are labelled for Warringah and the Leader for high office, because today, it “aggressive”, “mannish” or of the Opposition, to have Hon. suits his flimsy political purpose. “difficult” for the same qualities. Peter Slipper, MP removed as the Well I hope the Leader of the Female MPs, including me, Anna Watson, Speaker of the Australian House Opposition has got a piece of on both sides of the ideological MP is the Member of Representatives over crude paper and he is writing out his coin are regularly glanced over are treated more harshly than being a woman in politics is like a man. When you’re in the raised my gender in connection for Shellharbour in and sexist texts that he had sent resignation. Because if he wants for promotional opportunities, men; berated and bullied with like. Thankfully, we are too busy electorate, all that game-playing to my profession, their only the Parliament of to a parliamentary aide. to know what misogyny looks like and generally only given a what are primarily gender- working to affect change in our and pretence goes out the judgement of me is based solely Tony Abbott, a close personal in modern Australia, he doesn’t look-in when the barrel of male based slurs, and then told to electorates to allow ourselves window – because when the on my actions to fight against New South Wales, friend and supporter of Peter need a motion in the House of candidates has been exhausted. ‘toughen up’ or that we are to be distracted by this kind of chips are down, the only thing the privatisation of their local Australia. Anna was Slipper, criticised Julia Gillard for Representatives, he needs a It seems to me that we’re given simply being ‘too sensitive’ when behaviour. It’s actually a lot like that really matters is getting the healthcare facilities. raised in a traditional her “shameful” lack of action on mirror. This is a man who as the token, vanity promotions as a we endeavour to defend our trying to sleep with a mosquito job done. And here is where I believe working-class family the matter, while simultaneously former Minister for Health said, kind of box-ticking attempt at position. Some might say that in the room – it’s really annoying, In the electorate, being a there is a duality for women ‘cat-calling’ her in the chamber. and I quote: ‘Abortion is the easy equality, rather than actually it’s the professional equivalent sure, and there are moments that politician, female or otherwise, in modern politics; between that shared the values Tony Abbot had famously way out.’ This is a man who regarding us as political of someone purposely breaking send you into a spiral of pure rage, is about the quality and strength Parliament and the electorate. To of ‘a fair day’s work been photographed outside during the carbon-tax campaign powerhouses or ‘real players’. your ribs, and then saying, “oh but when all is said and done you of your work. Your worth is come back to my original point, I for a fair day’s pay’, Parliament alongside climate said, and I quote: “What the I feel that women in politics come on, don’t take it like that, simply swat the mosquito away judged on your ability to listen, really empathise with Julia Gillard and the right to equal change protesters who were housewives of Australia need you’re over-reacting!” and carry on sleeping. While we to problem-solve, to go in to bat and her experiences within the holding a banner that said ‘ditch to understand as they do the To this end, there is a real women surely cop-it inside the for your constituents, to answer walls of the Australian Federal opportunity for all to the witch’ in reference to the then ironing…” And then of course, “As a female culture of gas-lighting in this walls of Parliament in a way that the hard questions, to live and Parliament, because the problem make every family’s Australian Prime Minister, and he I continue to be offended by his Member of the proverbial boys’ club, where our male colleagues don’t, our breathe the area’s success is that her experiences are not life better. Prior to her was also alleged to have asked ongoing sexism and misogyny New South Wales you are pushed to the limit, and electorates are where we spend and quality of life and to be a unique, in fact they are horrifyingly election to Parliament, when un-married Julia Gillard’s right at this moment, as he then told how to feel about it. I the bulk of our time. champion for the issues that common and all too familiar. It’s long-term partner was going to sits there as the Leader of the Parliament, I am can’t tell you how many times In my electorate of matter most to the community. something that all women in Anna worked a variety make ‘an honest woman’ out of Opposition, catcalling across this I’ve been bullied and verbally Shellharbour in New South In my experience, when you’re politics may face at one point or of jobs, which included her during a Parliamentary sitting. table at me as I sit here as Prime assessed daily harassed, only to be told that I Wales, I have been the elected fighting tooth-and-nail to secure another during their careers. And training for the health Her now famous rebuttal Minister, shouting cave-man on my choice of ‘took it the wrong way’. While it is MP for almost 10 years. Unlike public housing for someone who while the unspoken discriminatory insurance industry, and speech captures what – I feel – is slurs about my personal marital clear that not all male politicians in Parliament, my gender is for is escaping a domestic violence gender rules that stubbornly a good place to start explaining status like: ‘If the Prime Minister clothing, my hair are guilty of being active the most part, a non-issue. Why? situation with their children, my cling to the bricks-and-mortar of as a professional trade what it’s like to be a woman in wants to make an honest woman and whether I participants in this culture, there Because when there are real being a woman doesn’t even government are still in full force, union official with the the field of modern politics. In a of herself…’, something that are certainly examples of those problems to be solved, no-one register. The parents of young I will continue to swat away that United Services Union key excerpt from her address, would never have been said to have an agreeable who are complicit in allowing it worries about my gender. It’s a children in low socio-economic pesky ‘misogynist’ mosquito and (USU). she comments: “In an interview any man sitting in this chair. I will demeanour. For to continue, simply because of place where I am taken seriously, suburbs don’t care that I’m a carry on with what really matters about women being under- not be lectured about sexism and the inherent privileges they’re because the responsibilities in ‘she’, all they care about is my to my electorate. Because at the represented in institutions of misogyny by this man. Not now, men in politics, afforded for the achievement of my remit are serious. ability to campaign for them to end of the day, the best method to power in Australia, the Leader not ever.” their ambition has being male. During Parliamentary sittings, get a school bus in their area so dismantle the oppressive systems of the Opposition [Tony Abbott] In my view, this is the state- However, luckily for me, and it’s all about how well you play their kids can attend school. The in our political fabric is to prove says: ‘If it’s true that men have of-play for the Australian political them categorised many of my female colleagues, the game, how well you take patients and staff of our local them wrong. more power generally speaking approach to gender. As a female as ‘leaders’.” this is a very small part of what the hits and your ability to think public hospital have never once

INCREASING THE NUMBERS OF WOMEN IN PARLIAMENT: A PERSPECTIVE FROM PAKISTAN

At almost the threshold of a women and keeping them caged elected women out of 272 new decade there is still cause in their polluted habitats. This general seats of the lower house for concern as to why women stalemate continues at the close of the Parliament (the National lag behind men in the crucial of this decade because women Assembly) with three from Punjab, political race to reach Parliament have very little or no access to four from Sindh and one from and make their contributions the very decision making tables Baluchistan. No one was elected as change makers to societies where policies are made which from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. which are discriminative and govern their life. The total number of candidates keep them tied in chains of age- The Legislative Assembly is, in (contestants) was 171. long injustices and abuse. a way, a mini-Khyber Pakhtunkhwa The situation in the provinces Though it is now widely as it reflects the culture that is no better. Only one woman Meraj Hamayun acknowledged that without prevails in the province, a culture was elected out of 99 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and that because that women’s representation answer is not simple but it has politics. These measures Khan is a former participation of women in all which believes that ‘women should of a sympathy vote for her and in political decision making to be considered. First of all it include the appointment Member of the Khyber spheres of development, a neither be seen nor heard’. It is “Though it is her family as her husband, the process “will fuel sustainable is time that women themselves, of women at decision- Pakhtunkhwa Assembly country’s progress in core a culture based on strict code original ticket holder, was killed in economies and benefit societies especially those who are in making level, the holding indicators of human development of Pakhtunwali with emphasis now widely a suicide bomb attack. and humanity at large”, the United the national Parliament and of discussions on gender, in Pakistan. She started is impossible, Pakistan still on honour and protection of The silver lining in this Nations has included gender Legislative Assemblies, whether and the facilitating of her political career in occupies a prominent position family and clan. Women being acknowledged pathetic situation is the increase equality as one of its sustainable directly elected or on reserved women meeting the basic 1996 by joining the among those countries which ‘vulnerable’ - physically, mentally that without in voter turnout (though the goals. For Pakistan to achieve seats, should understand requirements for entering newly created Tehrik i have yet to become fully aware and emotionally - need to be kept Election Commission of Pakistan this goal, it is imperative that a and take their responsibility into Parliament. and sensitive to this fact. There under strict control for fear they participation reports that two million women serious effort is made to study of law making seriously. Law • An increase in the Insaf as the provincial still exist barriers which prohibit might breach family honour. At of women in voters are still unregistered) the barriers which impede making is the first step towards Membership for women in president of its women’s advancement and recognition the same time, they have to be and the number of candidates progress and analyse the roles empowering women legally the Executive and Governing wing. Later she joined to women aspiring to actively protected from all the evils believed all spheres of (contestants). This was possible played in creating and sustaining and making people aware that bodies of political parties. the Qaumi Watan Party participate in the development of to be lurking all around in society. development, a due to the passage of the them through: they have to follow certain rules, • Training of women as voters their country. Political leadership, having Political Parties Act, 2017, which • Legislative and regulatory which bind them to consider as well as effective political and was elected to the Illiterate in the majority cases been raised in the same belief country’s progress bound the political parties to give frameworks women as equal partners. The candidates. Assembly on reserved but with very creative imagination and strict code of Pakhtunwali, in core indicators 5% tickets to women. Another • Culture and country contexts discussion that is generated by a • Engagement with political seats for women. She and extremely poor, women are finds it difficult to change the of human welcome fact is that out of 464 • Self-efficacy and law influences the thinking in the parties for greater sensitivity was elected as the most willing to offer their services patriarchal thinking and introduce women contesting for the five empowerment of women community and helps in breaking through internal regulations to whoever needs them, living in a system based on equality and development Legislatures in Pakistan, 175 themselves. down old traditions. and practices to promote Chairperson of the perpetual anguish and tension in justice. Women, on the other were independent candidates A holistic approach which Some other specific women’s leadership. Women’s Parliamentary insecure environments and yet hand, being totally or semi- is impossible, which shows that women are takes into consideration all the recommendations to increase • The creation of feminist Caucus and since they still manage to keep their literate, do not grasp the universal Pakistan still overcoming their diffidence and above factors influencing women’s women’s empowerment are: advocacy groups with a then she has worked spirits high and silently work issues of dependency and fears in joining politics. access to Parliament needs to be • A gender audit of the Political unified voice, a coalition for from dawn to dusk. Their steely independency, domination and occupies a Not only in Pakistan, the used to bring about a noticeable Parties Act 2017 to see if civic education and women’s tirelessly to make it nerves and resilience are of great suppression, freedom and fidelity prominent position whole global picture is a cause change in the current political principles are translating into participation as election an effective forum. benefit to those who put them in so they live contentedly nurturing for concern as shown by the status of women. The question is practice and whether further watchdog. She is also known for a role requiring responsibly and the dependency syndrome, little among those World Economic Forum Calendar how this can be done when men improvements needed to be • Massive advocacy to inform her innovative social firm and lasting commitment. realising how it inhibits their countries which of 144 countries, which reports are leading and are in control of the made. the public about electoral Unfortunately, patriarchal development as well as thinking. a 96% improvement in health development programme. • Serious engagement with regulations. projects for women societies with rigid beliefs and The current parliamentary have yet to become outcomes, 95% in education How can they be convinced the Election Commissions • A national charter and children and is the biased perceptions cannot sense statistics clearly bring out the fully aware and attainment, 59% in economic that women’s involvement would to ensure that effective highlighting women’s founder of the NGO, De the damage they are doing to vast gap in representation of sensitive to this participation, and only 23% in bring value to the planning measures are in place and aspirations for the future of Laas Gul. themselves and the community the two genders in the political bridging the gender political gap. and implementation process a conducive environment their country. at large, by silencing the voice of dialogue. There are only eight fact.” Acknowledging the fact instead of weakening it? The is created for women in

42 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue One | 100th year of publishing The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue One | 100th year of publishing | 43 REFLECTIONS ON WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT REFLECTIONS ON WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT AND THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION TO AND THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION TO INCREASE POLITICAL PARTICIPATION INCREASE POLITICAL PARTICIPATION

million European companies. REFLECTIONS ON WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT AND The rate of women doctors qualifying increases significantly each year; the number of women THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION TO INCREASE who apply for science and engineering-based degrees is growing. Women astrophysicists, including space travellers, are POLITICAL PARTICIPATION now commonplace. However, these advances are not true for all women. The vast majority of women In the early 1960s a world-wide the first flush of widespread of other international, regional work endlessly to feed families, advertisement for a Virginia Slims indignation against men’s sexual and national commitments. But are regularly exploited and cigarette especially designed abuse of women, we now begin laws alone do not make for a abused by society and by their for women carried the strapline to see that the movement has gentle and humane society male relatives, are prevented ‘you’ve come a long way, Girl!’ on occasions become vindictive and although legislation is a from any participation in The point being, one supposes, and exploitative. The temptation first critical step in an effective matters that affect their lives that having their own cigarette is to jump on the bandwagon of response – vigorous monitoring and livelihoods, who are weary brand emancipated women punishing men – understandably and strict accountability are also beyond description and still from having to smoke those because of the long history of needed to effect a change in have no access to proper shared by men! This together persistent abuse of women. culture. contraception, maternity care, with a penchant for bra-burning But not all men are guilty and The last 25 years or so have education, let alone any leisure. Rt Hon. Baroness characterised the women’s not all women are entirely seen truly remarkable changes Who has not travelled through much a politician as is a Head is perhaps unrealistic to expect Above: Baroness D’Souza visits D’Souza was elected liberation movement of the late free of revenge. There remain in attitudes towards women rural areas in all five continents of State. Village politics are a such women to aspire to political the school that she co-founded, as the second Lord last century. I have never been brutal systems such as slave and the entry of women into all and witnessed groups of men valuable training for wider political leadership when their primary the Marefat High School, in Speaker of the UK a militant feminist and struggle labour, enforced marriages, sectors of the workforce. The chatting away in cafes drinking representation and empowerment. concern remains subsistence Kabul, Afghanistan. with what such militancy adds in girl trafficking, female genital research attention paid to this tea, coffee, alcohol amidst clouds That said the importance of and survival. So the conditions for House of Lords in 2011, today’s context. Does it alienate mutilation, and the total lack trend has not been lacking. For of cigarette smoke while the women’s political engagement political equality have first to be a position she held until those from whom women of legal protection for women example, there are now several women continue to toil? Indeed, regionally and nationally is hard created. In an ideal world, girls go from Pakistan and had set up 2016. She first entered most need support OR without in many countries. But if the reputable and comprehensive evidence from our hunter/ to overstate. This is not because to school, learn employment skills an embryonic school in a bomb- the House in 2004 and militancy, would we not have got #MeToo movements and others studies showing the economic gatherer past suggests that the women necessarily have a unique (resulting as often as not in later damaged building in which he taught so far in the last 100 years as we like it are to be truly successful advantages of having women on women’s food gathering was view by virtue of their gender, marriage, better family spacing basic subjects in three shifts to 30 was Convenor of the have and therefore militancy is a in changing societal patterns, the boards of major international a far greater contribution to but because without women, the and fewer children). They take pupils, ranging in age from seven Crossbench Peers from vital tool? it is important that men are companies; an IMF 2016 the daily diet than were men’s political conversation is simply up dignified and rewarding work years to middle aged women. 2007 to 2011. Baroness Looking back on the actions afforded the same legal and report documented a positive hunting activities! incomplete. Democratic systems and ultimately become politically I began to raise, to begin D’Souza has a special of the brave suffragette women other protections as are available association between corporate Why does it matter that so are at their most legitimate, engaged at the local, regional with small amounts, of money in the early part of the last to women. return on assets and the share of many millions of women are credible and effective if there is and even national levels. Once with which Aziz repaired a large interest in human rights century and noting the ridicule, What has changed in the women in senior positions in two nowhere near parity with men in engagement from all corners of enfranchised some become building and put in heating. This and development issues abuse and disbelief with which last 100 years since women just about every aspect of life? society. It damages democracy democratic representatives was a master stroke because it they were confronted by all first got the vote in the UK? Apart from the obvious and horrific if women are excluded. Looking themselves and it is at this stage drew the whole community in on and is the co-founder of “If the #MeToo the Marefat High School sectors of society – not least the What protections has the world abuse that women continue to more broadly it is striking that that women’s empowerment long and cold winter evenings press of the day – we can only managed to set in place? movements and suffer – why and how should this exclusion happens most becomes transformative in and Aziz was able to persuade in Kabul, Afghanistan. wonder at the strident courage First there are the UN we fight to ensure that women frequently in less developed bringing about permanent shifts parents to allow girls to be She was director of an of these women fighting the Conventions that aim to protect others like it are to the world over have a voice in countries, in tandem with the fact in the distribution of social and schooled and he also started independent research entrenched views of both men and promote women including be truly successful decisions that affect their lives and that 70% of the world’s poorest economic power. adult literacy classes. This was group focusing on and of society more generally. the fundamental International livelihoods? Although there is now people are women. In the least Let me give a brief example after years of Taliban rule when It seems unthinkable today to Covenant on Civil and Political in changing great focus on women’s political developed countries, in the of how creating the conditions for anything approaching education development and recall that women did not have Rights (ICCPR), asserting that societal patterns, engagement at national levels, the absence of quotas for women equality can work in a limited amount for girls was severely punished. emergency aid. the full vote until 1928 and only all human beings are born local context is equally if not more politicians, the average is 12% of time in a country not renowned for Marefat High School today Baroness D’Souza taught as a result of sustained attacks free and equal in dignity and in it is important that important. As I have so often said of women Parliamentarians its liberal attitude towards women has almost 4,000 students anthropology at both on the prevailing wisdom. So, rights; the UN Convention on men are afforded to audiences around the world, compared to almost 20% globally – Afghanistan. Early in 2002, as ranging in age from seven to the who can say that militancy didn’t Economic, Social and Cultural politics is about organising people – and still far from the UN and a Governor of the Westminster early twenties; approximately the London School of work? It did, and we are all the Rights (CESR); the Convention the same legal and in order to achieve a common goal. Commonwealth target of 30%. Foundation for Democracy, I visited 500 girls have graduated and Economics and Oxford beneficiaries of it. However, is it on the Elimination of All Forms of other protections Therefore, the village woman who Too many women today still Afghanistan and met a young man, almost 98% have gone on to Brookes University. legitimate to ask if it still works? Discrimination Against Women brings together others in her own live in states of poverty, fear and Aziz Royesh, passionate about higher education including Let us look for a moment at (CEDAW), the UN Convention on as are available to and neighbouring settlements exploitation. Political participation education, most especially of girls. universities in South and central the #MeToo movement. After the Rights of the Child and a host women.” to insist on clean water is as is undoubtedly their right but it He was a recently returned refugee Asia, the Far East, the USA

44 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue One | 100th year of publishing The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue One | 100th year of publishing | 45 REFLECTIONS ON WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT FINDING POLICY SOLUTIONS TO AND THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION TO INCREASE WOMEN’S ECONOMIC INCREASE POLITICAL PARTICIPATION EMPOWERMENT IN THE UK

and Europe. A total of 271 full the widespread acceptance of scholarships have been won. 60 female education as the basis FINDING POLICY SOLUTIONS TO INCREASE WOMEN’S students went to the USA for and the pathway to development high school, undergraduate and generally. The time-worn ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT IN THE UK postgraduate degrees of which adage that if you educate a girl, 42 were girls. One statistic of you also educate a family, a which I am most proud is that neighbourhood and, eventually, a few years ago, the Women’s a nation continues to ring true University in Bangladesh offered wherever you look in the less 16 full scholarships to girls in the developed world. region (Afghanistan, Pakistan, The Commonwealth India, Sri Lanka, Nepal) and the Parliamentary Association, Marefat female graduates won largely through its active and 11 of them. This is an indication effective Commonwealth Unbeknown to me I was always recognised and not ridiculed as celebrations in 2018 was that it of the quality of the teaching. The Women Parliamentarians (CWP) political. I would fight for my a black woman is still a constant was almost overlooked that all school has been praised by the inaugurated in 1989, has long rights and the rights of others just battle. Much more needs to be men received the voting rights President and the First Lady and lobbied for greater participation because it was, in my very strong done to accomplish the change but only some women, this was to has international recognition. by women in parliamentary affairs. opinion, the right thing to do. My that is really needed. ensure that men always had the These graduates now work It has argued that given that father was very influential in my life In my roles as Member of majority say. in the President’s Palace and women constitute slightly more as the de facto shop steward on Parliament for Brent Central and Therefore when it comes to the First Lady’s Office, in various than 50% of the world population the railways, I would sit on the living Shadow Minister for Women equality we have to be forever Ministries, in the Parliament, the and it is incumbent on the CWP to room floor listening to stories of and Equalities, I am determined vigilant, we need to reflect on how Elections Commission, the media lead the way. The Commonwealth battles won and lost at work. to make those changes and far we’ve come but also be mindful and the academic world. 28% population of 2.4 billion, is one countries include sexual and between our meetings, progress It was no wonder then that accelerate the progress of change of how far we still need to go to of the teaching staff at Marefat third of the world’s population, domestic abuse, unequal pay, lack will not accelerate. There Hon. Dawn I became a trade union official and help tackle the structural achieve full equality. We need to are themselves graduates of the and 94% live in Asia and Africa. of full access to education and/or should be a common standard Butler, MP was and joined the Labour Party, barriers that still exist in society strive for greater inclusive progress. school. It is an undoubted success Potentially this is a powerful abortion, and the criminalisation on women’s rights to which all first elected to the the political party that made my that prevent progress for so many The Sustainable Development and although its future cannot force and the CWP has worked of same-sex relations, let alone Commonwealth countries not UK Parliament as the parents feel welcome when they people. Gender equality is an Goals are an important part of this be guaranteed in a country ceaselessly to mobilise this force. same-sex marriage. In the UK only aspire but activate. arrived from Jamaica. The values incredibly important goal which I through SDG Goal 5: Achieve as unstable as Afghanistan There have been conferences, for example, despite legislation, Changing the law to facilitate Member of Parliament that I hold dear like fairness, work towards every single day. gender equality and empower continues to be – it has already regional and Branch workshops, there has been a reluctance to women in politics is not, by itself, for Brent South in equality and justice are the DNA of To build a fairer society we all women and girls. This goal produced future leaders for the networking, the setting up of enforce the criminalisation of enough. Neither do I believe that 2005 and became the the Labour Party and that is why I must tackle all injustices. A fairer rightly says that gender equality community and demonstrates women’s parliamentary caucuses Female Genital Mutilation and quotas are sufficient; arguably first elected African- am proud to serve as the Member society should be judged on the is not only a fundamental human that, even under the most and a great deal of campaigning a recent House of Lords Report such arrangements, by providing of Parliament for Brent Central. basis that we measure success right, but a necessary foundation extenuating circumstances, much against injustices such as the on Affordable Child Care in the a quicker route to political Caribbean woman to When I became the first by the obstacles we overcome. for a peaceful, prosperous and can be achieved. abduction of girls by Boko UK makes it clear that the lack of involvement might undermine become a Government black female MP to ever be One such example from the sustainable world. Together, This is of course in line with Haram and honour killings in care is holding back many women progress towards political Minister in the UK. She appointed as a Minister in the UK includes the most recent all around the world, we must India and the Sudan. The CWP from pursuing a career. engagement for all women, was later elected for UK Government and the first data from the Office of National continue making progress has championed issues such as The world’s ancient and because they do not allow for the black female MP to speak from Statistics’ Annual Survey of Hours towards this important aim. Brent Central in 2015. “It is important gender equality, the elimination of modern history tells us that organic change in cultural norms the despatch box in 2009, it and Earnings, which showed that I am pleased to have gender-based violence, parental women get things done! One and social power that are also Dawn is currently the was a momentous and proud the median gender pay gap for all worked internationally with the to emphasise leave and childcare, pensions and issue which continues to be required. Shadow Minister for occasion. But it was tainted by employees was 17.9%. Commonwealth Parliamentary that the history of electoral reform. discussed and debated is how It is important to emphasise Women and Equalities the fact that I felt the horror and A very high differential when in But the CWP would itself admit better to build on the potential that the history of women’s disgust from some of the MPs 2018 we celebrated the passing women’s political that there is still a long way to go. for an international movement political participation should and continues to opposite. So much so that an of the Parliament Qualification Act, “To build a fairer participation should Twelve of the Commonwealth among Commonwealth women not focus alone on increasing commit her time in opposition Conservative MP tried which laid the foundation for the society we not focus alone countries have achieved 30% or Members. There is no shortage ‘women’s rights’ but should the UK Parliament to disparage me and criticise and first women being able to stand for must tackle all more women Parliamentarians of meetings and opportunities to reflect everyone’s rights. Political to representing question my grasp of English. He Parliament – a suffrage landmark. on increasing with Rwanda, one of the newest renew individual friendships. The participation is a basic human rose to his feet on the floor of the We also marked the 90th injustices. A fairer members of the Commonwealth, problem is how these links can right. Creating the social and groups and people in House and said “Will the Minister anniversary of the Representation ‘women’s rights’ achieving 61% female become more institutionalised cultural conditions that encourage society that are often very kindly stop this assault on of the People (Equal Franchise) society should but should reflect parliamentary representation by and effective. We all return to our such political participation for underrepresented. the English language? Can we Act 1928, which gave women be judged on the means of quotas. However, this day jobs after our Commonwealth women is a crucial driver for drop these awful terms such as over the age of 21 equal voting everyone’s still leaves 41 Commonwealth gatherings and time is always achieving wider development ‘upskilling’ and ‘third sector’.” rights to men. It took another basis that we rights. Political countries which are nowhere near short. Unless we agree clear, an establishing stable and Ten years later much has 10 years before equal franchise measure success the UN target. do-able actions to continue our successful societies, to benefit changed, for a start upskilling and was achieved where women and participation is a Other persistent anachronisms conversations and our legislative women AND men. third sector are now commonly men at the age of 18 could vote. by the obstacles basic human right.” affecting Commonwealth campaigning on agreed goals in used terms, but the battle to be What struck me about the many we overcome.”

Association on these issues prevalent and sadly the abuse has demonstrating how they will become pregnant. So one of to around 14% of the whole UK and more, including attending not stopped. As a black female tackle issues of recruitment, the things we must do to tackle population who are from a non- the CPA’s celebrations for Member of Parliament, I suffer progression, pay and work/life gender inequality is create a more white background. Commonwealth Day last year abuse on a daily basis, as do so balance. Only companies with this balanced and flexible working One of the simplest steps where I spoke to so many many of my colleagues. certification will be considered environment for all. that could improve diversity in our young people from across the We need to do so much more for government contracts under A holistic approach to politics is to enact Section 106 Commonwealth. Young people are to achieve equality and ensure that a Labour government. This is economic empowerment means of the Equality Act 2010, which our present and future and they are everyone, no matter their gender or important because there is no tackling the things that unfairly includes a requirement for political paramount in ensuring we achieve background, feels like they belong guarantee that the gap will close hold women back. Another parties to publish the demographic these Sustainable Development exactly where they are and that over time – it needs significant Labour Party policy that I am make-up of their election Goals and bring about real positive they can do and achieve anything. action from Government, proud of is the policy to end candidates, for instance, BAME change in society. There are so many challenges businesses and society. period poverty. In the UK on (Black, Asian and minority ethnic) As young people start creating holding back gender equality – A further step is the pledge average, every female spends and disabled etc. Previous research ways of elevating others and forcing and at the heart of it is valuing the by the Labour Party to introduce around £5,000 in their lifetime on has shown that transparency can change and progress, it gives us role that women play in society. mandatory race pay gap reporting menstruating products. be a driving force for change. hope that Goal 5 of the Sustainable for large companies, alongside Low income families shouldn’t The UK Parliament has a discrimination claim on the and violence against women with Above: Dawn Butler, MP joined Development Goals is achievable. Women’s Economic company action plans, to encourage have the additional burden of agreed to introduce a trial of grounds of one aspect of disabilities is reported annually, the CPA Chairperson, Hon. One such initiative are inclusion Empowerment businesses to tackle racial struggling to afford sanitary proxy voting for MPs on baby your identity. This is hugely with national actions plans to Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP for riders where actors refuse to act in a At the heart of the gender pay gap discrimination in the workplace. products; or homeless women leave. This is a welcome but small problematic for individuals such address these issues. the CPA Youth Programme on film unless there is diversity behind are several issues; discrimination, These steps are about encouraging suffering on the streets; or young step to bring the UK Parliament as older white women, Muslim The response I received after Commonwealth Day 2018, to and in the pipeline of a film. the undervaluing of roles companies to take ownership of the people missing school once a into the 21st century. As a feminist women or disabled Black women announcing the domestic abuse speak to young people from I know from personal predominantly done by women, the issues and encouraging them to be month because they just can’t and a campaigner, I have been for example, who can’t claim pay policy made me stop in my tracks. across the Commonwealth experience just how important unequal distribution of labour with exemplar employers. afford sanitary protection. The left asking what about the MPs discrimination on multiple identity Person after person approached about how they “could put allies are and the difference it more women in part-time low-paid We must ensure there is better Labour Party has pledged to who are hospitalised, MPs with grounds. We must change that. me, each one tearful, some spoke their mark on the special makes to have more than one jobs, the dominance of men in best provision and greater take up of provide free sanitary products in cancer? These small steps And I was proud to announce in hushed tones telling me how relationship that we have with ‘other’ at the table. In 2005 when paid positions and unequal caring parental leave and more affordable schools, colleges and foodbanks, sometimes need to be a leap. that a Labour government would this policy would have changed the Commonwealth.” I first entered the UK Parliament, responsibilities. Tackling these childcare. Only then will we have as well as free prescriptions for Too often we have seen the change just that. their lives, a landmark new policy Rt Hon. Diane Abbott, MP and I issues must be our main priority if more balanced workplaces and sanitary protection or reusable indignity of MPs being wheeled to ensure that employers introduce were the only two black female we are to see sustainable change homes, because as we know, cups. This is just one part of my into Parliament in a wheelchair to Violence Against Women workplace domestic abuse government, remove the structural MPs. For me this was hard and in workplaces an in the home. women continue to play a greater vision to bring about gender vote, or MPs being aided to walk and Girls policies and provide up to ten days barriers, and ensure that career often soul destroying. Besides the To remove structural barriers, role in caring for children and sick equality and the economic into the lobbies to vote. As a shop Sadly violence against women paid leave for victims of domestic progression along with pay fact that 8/10 times I was called it is imperative that you chip or elderly relatives. empowerment of women. steward I would not accept that in and girls continues to be a global violence. This will allow women progression are transparent Diane and not by my actual name, away at the foundations which Just 7% of engineering any other work place. epidemic, affecting an estimated and men to leave their abusive so that employees are treated I recall the moment I was in a lift contribute and build on policies apprenticeships achieved last Women’s Representation I have always said that we one in three women worldwide. partners safely and get the help, well, promoted fairly and equally. on my way to a Parliamentary that encourage transparency. year were undertaken by women. Representation matters in politics will know that we have achieved We will not be able to achieve protection and support they need And companies are held to Committee and was told by One of the policies I have been And at the top, men continue – not just for its own sake, but true equality in Parliament and in women’s economic empowerment knowing their livelihood is secure. account and their good practices another Member of Parliament campaigning for is to require all to dominate the most senior because it shifts the balance of positions of power when there are or greater women’s representation rewarded, where we ensure strong that “this lift isn’t for cleaners”. large private and public employers and best paid roles – in 2018, power, brings politics closer to more as many ‘rubbish’ women as ‘rubbish’ if we cease to value women and if Radical Workplace Revolution workplace protections are in place, Roll forward 13 years later and to obtain government certification only seven Chief Executives people who are directly affected by men sitting in the seats of power. women are not safe. It is proposed I firmly believe we must lead a and when people need it, there is although there are more women of their gender equality practices in the FTSE 100 list of top UK policies. Diversity can also dictate It is important that in tackling that a Labour government would radical workplace revolution to access to justice. of colour in Parliament, being or face further auditing or fines. businesses were women. We which issues are heard or ignored. gender inequality we take appoint a Commissioner to ensure that employees no longer Throughout this journey, we wrongly identified is still very They must produce action plans must support women’s journeys Fifty-one percent of the intersectionality seriously. set new standards for tackling have to rely on the ladder of must remember that the pursuit into male-dominated sectors. population are women and since Intersectionality is where domestic and sexual violence. success. Because this ladder of of gender equality must include If we are going to evoke 1918, just 491 women have people’s overlapping identities Age-appropriate sex and success has held women and everyone – that includes our change we must examine the served as elected MPs in the UK and experiences interact in the relationship education would also people of colour back for too LGBTQ+ community, women intentions of the goalkeepers of Parliament. There were 208 female complex prejudices they face. become a compulsory part of the long. How many times have we of colour, disabled women, older businesses and their unconscious MPs elected at the UK General Intersectionality, is about double, curriculum so young people can heard people say they did all that women, working class women, bias. That is why, to tackle the Election in 2017 – 32% of all MPs. triple or quadruple discrimination understand, appreciate and learn was asked of them, worked extra single mums, as well as other underrepresentation of women This is the highest ever number and people face. I myself have been about respectful relationships unsociable hours. Yet they were groups who are traditionally and people of colour in positions proportion so clearly we are making subjected to multiple layers and so that young people fully still unable to take the next step. underrepresented. of power, I believe we must progress, but it is not anywhere of discrimination and when understand what it means to In most cases, men seem to My overarching belief is that

Image credit: UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor. implement the Parker Review near fast enough if we are to reach confronting said discrimination I understand power and consent. seamlessly rise up this ladder of equality is equality, you cannot recommendations to increase true representation. have not always had the support The law should be strengthened, success with little effort or set back. pick and choose. That means diversity on boards. Even more of an effort needs of white feminists and this used to banning the use of community So instead of relying on the we must fight for the rights of The Equality and Human to be made on diversity. 52 MPs confuse me. resolutions as a response to shaky ladder of success, I am everyone as if they were our own. Rights Commission estimates in the UK House of Commons Identity isn’t one-dimensional, domestic violence. And we must determined instead to build the Together, we can achieve it. 54,000 mothers a year are forced are from non-white backgrounds, but our current legislation ensure that under the Istanbul foundations of an escalator to leave their jobs early after they 8% of the total. This is compared means that you can only bring Convention, disability hate crime of success. Where we, as a

for Women and Equalities from agenda. Our latest inquiry THE WORK OF THE WOMEN AND EQUALITIES 2012-2014, I was adamant that focusses on the use of non- the establishment of a Select disclosure agreements in Committee was necessary to discrimination cases, which challenge the government on builds on the Committee’s SELECT COMMITTEE IN THE UK PARLIAMENT equality issues. I fought hard recent inquiry into sexual for the Women and Equalities harassment in the workplace. Committee to be set up in 2015 in A key recommendation from

the UK Parliament, and as Chair, that report was for the UK Image credit: UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor. I work on a cross-party basis Government to clean up the use with colleagues to keep these of non-disclosure agreements important issues to the fore. in sexual harassment cases, Last year, the UK Parliament particularly enjoyed participating events was that a 50/50 gender- The Committee applies and this new inquiry now celebrated Vote100 to mark in the Commonwealth Women balanced Parliament is the only pressure on the government gives us the opportunity to the anniversary of 100 years Parliamentarians British acceptable outcome. by conducting inquiries, and explore this in more detail. since it passed a law enabling Islands and Mediterranean In 2019, the UK now has by using the media to keep We have issued a call for some women and all men Regional Conference and a some of the best laws protecting these issues at the top of the evidence and once all written issues to the top of the policy Above: Rt Hon. Maria Miller, to vote for the first time. As panel discussion organised women, people with disabilities evidence submissions have been agenda and to the forefront MP speaks in the UK House of Chair of the UK Parliament’s by the CPA UK Branch on and the LGBTQ community; Below: Commonwealth collated, the Committee will of peoples’ minds. It has also Commons about the work of the Women and Equalities Select empowering women’s voices however, there is still much more Women Parliamentarians call on witnesses to shape our encouraged the UK Parliament Women and Equalities Select Committee, I was delighted this in the UK Parliament with my to be done on all fronts. While from the CPA British Islands understanding of how areas of to rethink how it works for Committee at the Women MPs milestone was celebrated with colleagues, Angela Rayner, MP more rights are enshrined in law and Mediterranean Region, the law can be improved. women with recent steps made of the World Conference. Please such enthusiasm and hope. I and Baroness Jenkin. than ever before, instances of attending the CWP BIM I am particularly proud of to improve accessibility and the turn to page 68 for a full report. Rt Hon. Maria When I first became a sexual harassment at work and Regional Conference in London the cross-party nature of the working environment, as well Miller, MP is the Member of Parliament in discrimination of disabled people in April 2018, visit the first Select Committee’s work and as undertaking an IPU-backed representation of women. Chair of the Women “I am particularly 2005, it was hard to believe and pregnant women in the statue of a women in Parliament how concern for these issues Gender Sensitive Parliament I am pleased to announce th and Equalities Select I was only the 265 woman workplace are all too common. It Square opposite the United overrides any political divisions. Audit. that in June 2019, the CPA proud of the ever to be elected to the UK is all very well creating laws, but if Kingdom Parliament. The Working collaboratively and In addition to my work with UK Branch is planning a Committee in the cross-party Parliament. The low number of they don’t work in practice, there statue commemorates the life applying our collective range of the Women and Equalities Select Workshop on Gender Impact UK Parliament and a female Parliamentarians made needs to be robust processes for of the suffragist, Dame Millicent experience and skills is key to Committee, I am also a member Analysis bringing together member of the CPA nature of me think I could never be one scrutiny and review in place. Fawcett, who campaigned for driving forward the Committee’s of the CPA UK Executive Commonwealth Parliamentarians UK Branch Executive the Select myself, but I was inspired to put That is where the Women women’s right to vote in the ambitious programme of Committee which enables me and experts to learn about myself forward by witnessing and Equalities Select Committee United Kingdom during the early inquiries. I am certain that and colleagues to meet and different ways to identify and Committee. Before Committee’s the inspirational contributions centres its work. As the Minister 20th century and is seen as one the work of the Women and work with other Commonwealth highlight gender inequality and entering Parliament, work and how of trailblazers such as the UK’s of the most influential feminists Equalities Select Committee has Parliamentarians around the bring about change. Further Maria worked for 20 concern for first woman Prime Minister, Rt of the past 100 years. helped push these important world. Empowering women is one information will be sent out years in marketing. Hon. Margaret Thatcher. I am Left: Rt Hon. Maria Miller, MP of CPA UK’s strategic priorities shortly, but if you are interested these issues delighted to say the outlook has speaks at the Commonwealth and we are continually looking in taking part please contact the Maria was first elected improved with more women than Women Parliamentarians at how this can be achieved by CPA UK Branch. to the UK Parliament overrides any ever being elected in the 2017 workshops on gender equality working in partnership with other I am also strongly supportive in 2005 to represent political divisions. general election, although I am held at the 62nd Commonwealth CPA Branches and by running of CPA UK’s Modern Slavery Basingstoke and also pleased that the common Parliamentary Conference in and participating in multilateral Project which has achieved Working conclusion of the Vote100 London, UK. activities. excellent results in supporting has held a number collaboratively I have seen first-hand the legislative change in a number of of Ministerial roles work of CPA UK and the CPA countries. Of course, women are including Secretary and applying our International Headquarters disproportionately affected by nd of State for Culture, collective range when I attended both the 62 this heinous crime. Commonwealth Parliamentary I credit the Commonwealth Media and Sport, and of experience and Conference in December 2016 Women Parliamentarians for Minister for Women and skills is key to in London, UK and the 63rd their work over the last 30 years Equalities (2012-2014). Commonwealth Parliamentary and draw many parallels with driving forward Conference in November 2017 the work of the Women and the Committee’s in Bangladesh. It was interesting Equalities Select Committee in to see this important network of the UK. Along with all the other ambitious Commonwealth Parliamentarians organisations invested in gender- programme of at work and meet so many of my balanced, accessible Parliaments, fellow female Parliamentarians I look forward to witnessing more inquiries.” working for increased change for the better.

UK House of Commons on BBC WOMEN’S POLITICAL REPRESENTATION IN THE UNITED Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour, these events were highly informative, engaging and entertaining, KINGDOM PARLIAMENT: CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS and frequently moving. To see suffrage memorabilia ‘in person’; to hear from historians and suffrage experts; to read books THAT LACKED ‘DEEDS’ about hitherto unknown political women,13 or simply to celebrate with other women the acquisition of women’s political rights. One 1918 saw two pieces of legislation a statue of militant suffragette Harman, MP, the longest could also buy plenty of suffrage that were critical to the realisation Emmeline Pankhurst, the continually serving current woman centenary gifts including designer of women’s political equality leader of the Women’s Social MP in the UK, hosted over a jewellery, tea towels, mugs, and in the United Kingdom. The and Political Union, only the hundred women Parliamentarians most famously (at least at the UK Representation of the People Act second statue of a woman in from 86 countries.11 (see page 68 Parliament) Suffragette rubber 14

passed in February of that year the city after Queen Victoria. for full report). ducks for one’s bath. Image credits: UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor and copyright: © Parliamentary Archives. gave some British women the right These were not the only statues On the centenary of the 1918 was then well and to vote; women had to be over 30 – a seemingly popular form of Qualification Act itself, and as part truly marked in 2018. Yet, as and meet a property qualification – commemoration.4 of the #Askhertostand campaign, the year ended, it could only be MPs); and 33% of the Liberal that women face participating in dispositions, and experiences ‘land or premises’ of a ‘yearly value Thousands of women also took current UK MPs - male and concluded that there were no Democrats (4 women MPs). politics – particularly in respect relevant to the job of being of five pounds or more’ – or be to the streets, marching like their female – brought women into the ‘deeds’ in 2018 worthy of the The under-representation of parties’ selection processes an MP. Professor Sarah the ‘wife of a husband so entitled foremothers in numerous cities.5 UK Parliament for the day.12 suffrage meaning of the word. I of women in British politics – are not historical artefacts but 7. Engage in various Childs is Professor to be so registered’.1 It would take Many donned purple, white and There was - for women up say this specifically with regard relative to their presence in the continue to negatively structure parliamentary and other of Politics and Gender another decade to bring about green sashes. Parliament’s senior and down the country - no end to the gender gap amongst population is well-documented, women’s experiences.18 The activities to enhance the at Birkbeck, University equality in voting rights between archivist Mari Takayanagi argues of possibilities to participate in Parliamentarians at Westminster. whether one looks to academic Report went so far as to talk supply of, and demand British women and men, at the age that the suffragette colours have centenary activities of one sort Following the 2017 general (Norris and Lovenduski 1995; of ‘high levels of resistance for, diverse parliamentary of London, UK. Her of 21.2 now become synonymous with or another. As someone who election, there still remain more Childs 2008; Kenny 2017), civil to women and other under- candidates. research expertise The second, and less well suffrage, whether militant or not. participated in a good many – than 100 women ‘missing’ from society,15 or Parliament’s own represented groups’, evident in 8. Secure a cross-party centres on the theory known law, is The Parliament There were numerous academic including an ‘end of year’ live the UK House of Commons. In research.16 Plenty has been the structures, processes and concord regarding candidate 6 and practice of women’s (Qualification of Women) Act. conferences, and national and radio broadcast from inside the a House of 650 Members equal said too about what should be culture of politics. selection for the 2020 Passed in November 1918 this local museums put on exhibitions. representation requires 325 done, most notably in recent It is not the case that Parliament following the representation, gender provided all women over the Plays and musicals were staged “1918 was well women. At present there are 209. years by Parliament’s Speaker’s Government, Parliament or boundary review: all political and political parties, age of 21 with the right to stand and books on women’s suffrage Constituting 32% of all MPs, there Conference on Representation political parties do not know parties should seek to and re-gendering for election to the UK’s House and women in politics were (re) and truly marked is additionally a skewedness in in 2010,17 and the 2014 what might be done. In 2016, increase the percentage of its 3 7 Parliaments. Sarah of Commons. At the general published. EqualiTeas - tea in 2018. Yet, as women’s representation by party. In Women in Parliament All Party The Good Parliament provided women MPs – at the absolute election a couple of weeks later, and cake parties with suffrage respect of the main political parties, Parliamentary Group (APPG) more than 40 recommendations minimum all parties currently has written several 17 women stood as candidates. related board games - were held the year ended, women currently make up 21% Report, Improving Parliament. In that would transform the House represented in the House books on women’s Only one, the Sinn Fein candidate in homes, workplaces and girls it could only be of the Conservatives (67 women addition to these publications, the of Commons into a diversity should maintain existing representation. On Constance Markievicz was organisations.8 MPs); 43% of the Labour party Fawcett Society’s Strategies for sensitive institution.19 In respect percentages of women MPs. Sarah’s recommendation successful, although as an Irish At the UK Parliament, concluded that (119 women MPs); 34% of the Success published in late 2018 of women and men’s equal 9. Introduce prior to Republican she did not take up Westminster Hall’s ‘Voice and there were no Scottish National Party (12 women established that the obstacles participation at Westminster, dissolution for the 2020 a new group of UK her seat. The first woman MP to Vote’ exhibition recreated the the report made the following general election statutory MPs, The Commons sit in the House of Commons in ventilator and the cage – historic ‘deeds’ in 2018 recommendations, with those sex/gender quotas to take Reference Group the UK was the American-born means by which women were worthy of the in bold relating directly to sex effect for the 2025 general on Representation Nancy Astor in 1919. able to view parliamentary debate quotas (equality guarantees) election if, three months The centenary year of when formally excluded from suffrage meaning and candidate diversity data prior to the 2020 general and Inclusion was 9 2018 witnessed a great the public galleries. The names of the word. I say gathering (strong equality election, political parties established by the number of celebrations and of all women MPs who had ever promotion) (Lovenduski 2005): currently represented in Speaker and she commemorations across sat on the green benches were this specifically 6. Publish a series of Parliament have failed to continues to advise this the UK. The first ever statue also listed. Portcullis House, the with regard statements detailing and select at least 50% women of a woman was unveiled in newer part of the parliamentary promoting the role and work in a party’s ‘vacant held’ group as it overseas Parliament Square in London estate, staged the ‘209’ to the gender of MPs, to both educate and ‘target seats’. Introduce the implementation of Millicent Fawcett, the leader photography exhibition of sitting gap amongst the public more about what permissive legislation to of changes to the UK of the National Union of UK women MPs.10 it is that MPs do, and to allow for party quotas for Parliament. Women’s Suffrage Societies’; In the UK House of Commons Parliamentarians explicitly signal the range other under-represented and Manchester was the site for Chamber itself, Rt Hon. Harriet at Westminster.” of characteristics, skills, groups, where parties have

failed to select proportional presence in the parliamentary political inequality is being commemoration one hundred percentages of candidates Conservative party.20 discussed in the UK. years from now. from these groups. What of Section 106 #AskHerToStand has arguably 18. Support the production of the Equality Act 2010, been the most notably successful Bibliography of comprehensive website Recommendations 22 and 24? campaign in terms of its publicity Childs, S. (2008) Women and materials showing that a None of the recent Secretaries and wide appeal, with cross party British Party Politics (London: diversity of people are, and can of State for Women have been support within Parliament. Actions Routledge) be, MPs. favourably disposed. Their to increase the size and diversity Kenny, M. (2018) ‘From Thatcher

19. Support the development reluctance in the face of a public of the political supply pool of to May and Beyond: Women in British Image credits: UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor. of a residential ‘Introduction to campaign21 and the Women women should be supported: Politics’, in Allen, N. and Bartle, J. (ed) being an MP’ Programme for and Equalities Committee more women actively recruited None Past the Post (Manchester: MUP). under-represented groups. inquiring into women’s under- into politics is a good thing. Lawless, J. L. and Fox, R. L. (2005) It 22. Immediately commence representation once again in Research tells us that women Takes a Candidate (Cambridge: CUP) Section 106 of the 2018, was inexplicable according need more than men to be invited Lovenduski, J. (2005) Feminizing Equality Act 2010 (which to the Fawcett Society’s Sam to participate in politics (Lawless Politics (Cambridge: Polity). requires political parties Smethers.22 and Fox 2005). Yet, there is a Norris, P. and Lovenduski, J. (1995) to provide data relating to Section 106, passed by the very big risk that this strategy on Political Recruitment (Cambridge: CUP). parliamentary candidates). outgoing Labour government in its own reinforces a supply-side 23. Clarify the status and 2010 requires political parties to only analysis of the causes of References: effectiveness of the Access provide candidate diversity data. women’s political representation. 1 https://www.legislation. to Elected Office Fund for A transparency and monitoring This can easily be interpreted gov.uk/ukpga/1918/64/pdfs/ supporting disabled people measure, Section 106 would as assuming that that if the ukpga_19180064_en.pdf to stand for election as local enable academics, civil society supply pool increases so too, https://thehistoryofparliament. councillors or MPs. groups and the public to hold automatically and inevitably, will wordpress.com/2018/02/06/the- 24. [Women and Equalities political parties to account for the numbers of women returned representation-of-the-people-act- Committee] Call the the outcomes of their selection to Parliament. There is too much 1918-a-radical-reform-measure-bill/ Secretary of State for processes. It is also expected to data to the contrary (including 2 https://www.parliament.uk/about/ lifeandstyle/2018/jun/10/women- https://www.fawcettsociety.org. For an update see https:// Above: The Prime Minister Women and Equalities nudge political parties to select from the Scottish Parliament and living-heritage/transformingsociety/ march-across-uk-to-celebrate-100- uk/event/askhertostand-breaking- www.parliament.uk/documents/ of the United Kingdom, Rt before the Committee more diverse candidates. As National Assembly of Wales) to electionsvoting/womenvote/case- years-of-female-suffrage; down-the-barriers lords-information-office/UK%20 Hon. Theresa May, MP and regarding commencement developed in The Good Parliament be complacent about an ever- study-the-right-to-vote/the-right-to- http://www.bbk.ac.uk/events/ 13 For example, Rachel Reeve Parliament_%20Gender%20 Members from both Houses of of Section 106 of the Report, it would moreover have upwards trajectory of women’s vote/birmingham-and-the-equal- remote_event_view?id=3142 MP’s Alice in Westminster, or the Sensitive%20Parliament%20Audit_ the UK Parliament gathered in Equality Act 2010. provided candidate diversity political representation. The franchise/1928-equal-franchise-act/ 6 For example: http://www. Labour party activist, Nan Sloane’s Report_DIGITAL.pdf; Central Lobby to celebrate the 43. [Political parties] Engage data to be published on a rolling demand side intervention of 3 https://www.parliament. lsbu.ac.uk/__data/assets/pdf_ book on Labour’s women activities https://www.ipu.org/news/news-in- centenary of the Representation in various activities to increase basis as parties selected their quotas is globally proven to be uk/about/living-heritage/ file/0005/127625/1918-2018- The Women in the Room) brief/2018-12/uk-parliament-makes- of the People Act, 1918 in the supply of, and demand candidates; the data would have successful. The nearby case of transformingsociety/electionsvoting/ 100-years-of-the-womens-vote-in- 14 https://www.shop.parliament. steady-progress-gender-equality February 2018. for, diverse parliamentary been systematic and comparable Ireland’s quota attests to this.23 womenvote/case-study-the-right-to- Britain-programme.pdf; uk/products/suffragette- 20 Listen to comments by candidates. across parties; would distinguish Asking women to stand without vote/the-right-to-vote/birmingham- https://research.reading.ac.uk/ duck; for example https:// Women2win founder Baroness The snap general between selections in winnable changing how political parties do and-the-equal-franchise/1918- research-blog/event/a-century-of- museumoflondonshop.co.uk/ Anne Jenkin https://www.bbc.co.uk/ election of 2017 overtook and unwinnable seat (to illuminate politics and select candidates can representation-of-the-people-act/; women-mps-conference-including- collections/museum/suffragette programmes/m0001kb7; Recommendations 8 and 9 whether diverse candidates had only be an ‘incremental’ approach https://www.parliament. rachel-reeves-mp-and-dr-jacqui- 15 See Hansard Society ‘Women https://www.parliament.uk/ 22 https://www.parliament.uk/ relating to candidate quotas for a good chance of being elected that ensures women’s ongoing uk/about/living-heritage/ turner-university-of-reading/ at the Top’ reports; https://www. business/committees/committees- business/committees/committees- what had been scheduled to and not just selected); and inequality at Westminster in the transformingsociety/electionsvoting/ 7 See for example: http://www. hansardsociety.org.uk/publications/ a-z/commons-select/women-and- a-z/commons-select/women- be the 2020 general election. would be hosted by the Electoral short and medium term.24 womenvote/parliamentary- naomipaxton.co.uk/suffrageplays. publications-a-z) and www. equalities-committee/inquiries/ and-equalities-committee/news- Despite the fact that the number Commission. As 2019 opens, campaigners collections/nancy-astor/parliament- html; https://www.oldvictheatre.com/ fawcettsociety.org parliament-2017/inquiry2/; It parliament-2017/women-house-of- of Conservative women MPs Section 106 was a political have not given up on enacting qualification-of-women-act/ whats-on/2019/sylvia-coming-soon; 16 https://researchbriefings. should be noted that the adoption commons-evidence-17-19/ declined between 2015 and ‘ask’ that was very much felt by Section 106. That said, there 4 https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/ https://www.theguardian.com/ parliament.uk/ResearchBriefing/ of candidate quotas changes the 23 http://blogs.lse.ac.uk/ 2017, from 70 before the election academics and campaigners to is no way of denying that the uk-politics-43868925; books/2017/jan/22/alice-in- Summary/SN01250 demand for women and can, as europpblog/2016/03/16/the-2016- to 67 afterwards, the fact that be in tune with other gender-gap centenary year ended without https://www.theguardian.com/ westminster-political-life-alice-bacon- 17 https://www.parliament.uk/ the recent case in Ireland shows, irish-election-demonstrated-how- the percentage of Conservative auditing processes. It was very any statutory or regulatory acts culture/2018/dec/14/thousands- rachel-reeves-review business/committees/committees- significantly increase the supply of gender-quotas-can-shift-the-balance- of women MPs stayed the much hoped that it would find to address women’s political turn-out-for-unveiling-of-emmeline- 8 https://equaliteas.org.uk a-z/other-committees/speakers- women too. http://blogs.lse.ac.uk/ on-female-representation/. Irish quotas same at 21% pre-empted favour precisely because the under-representation in the UK pankhurst-statue-in-manchester; 9 https://www.parliament.uk/get- conference-on-parliamentary- europpblog/2016/03/16/the-2016- also increased the supply of women consideration of candidate sex Government had arguably gone Parliament. Though it is only an https://www.leicestermercury. involved/vote-100/voice-and-vote/ representation/ irish-election-demonstrated-how- coming forward showing the interaction quotas. This was something that done a similar road with gender equality promotion measure, the co.uk/news/leicester-news/ 10 https://www.parliament. 18 https://www.fawcettsociety. gender-quotas-can-shift-the-balance- of supply and demand side factors. some high-profile supporters pay gap audits. That campaigners enactment of Section 106 would hundreds-gather-historic-unveiling- uk/209-women org.uk/strategies-for-success on-female-representation/ 24 https://www.researchgate. of women’s representation in were in 2018 asking for Section have constituted a symbolic and statue-1165140; 11 https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/ 19 https://www.bristol.ac.uk/ 21 https://www.centenaryaction. net/publication/248994967_ the Conservative party had said 106 and not for legislative quotas substantive intervention. Without https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/ uk-politics-46136404 media-library/sites/spais/ org.uk/2018-statement; https:// Quotas_as_a_Fast_Track_to_Equal_ should be ‘on the table’ if there was in itself telling of the current it, regrettably, there is little that uk-england-tyne-45482172. 12 https://5050parliament.co.uk/ images/grc/GoodParliament%20 www.fawcettsociety.org.uk/make- Representation_for_Women_Why_ was a reduction in women’s environment in which women’s happened in 2018 that will merit 5 https://www.theguardian.com/ askhertostand/; SinglePage%20Report.pdf; equality-law-21st-century Scandinavia_Is_No_Longer_the_Model

54 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue One | 100th year of publishing The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue One | 100th year of publishing | 55 WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN: WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN: INTRODUCING THE COMMONWEALTH INTRODUCING THE COMMONWEALTH WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS ALUMNI INITIATIVE ALUMNI INITIATIVE

of particular significance for WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN: INTRODUCING THE women’s leadership.

UN Women Theory of Change COMMONWEALTH WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS The 2016 UN Women Theory of Change7 provides a useful framework to guide future work on women’s political leadership. ALUMNI INITIATIVE It proposes a four-pronged strategy, including the need to focus on both current and future women MPs, as set out below: The last time that I wrote an representation of women MPs. implement temporary special (1) Support development article for The Parliamentarian Rwanda leads both the world and measures have had limited and implementation of was in 2001, when I was the the Commonwealth with 61% success.5 Women leaders in robust legal frameworks Chairperson of Commonwealth women MPs in its Parliament, the Pacific identified the need and administrative Women Parliamentarians (CWP) and the Commonwealth now has to transform gender norms as arrangements that facilitate Australia Region.1 My article 12 countries with more than 30% a key priority to enable them to women’s participation. This was about increasing women’s women Members in their national achieve the legitimacy needed includes relevant reforms to political and parliamentary Parliaments. However, at the to participate and lead in the constitutions, gender equality representation, which is still my other end of the scale, there are political sphere. laws or party statutes, and passion today. It is therefore still 12 Commonwealth countries policy actions such as setting with great pleasure that I am with less than 10% women MPs Response from the numerical targets for women Dr Lesley Clark contributing again, almost two in their national Parliaments.2 Commonwealth in leadership positions with served for five terms decades later, as the inaugural Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu The Commonwealth Women’s temporary special measures capacity to lead, enhancing Above: Dr Lesley Clark with Daw Khin Saw Wai, MP, a Member of as an Australian Champion of the new CWP currently have no women MPs. Forum (CWF), held in April 2018 and reforming party statutes. their campaign strategies and Parliament from Myanmar. Lesley was a mentor through a project State Member of Alumni Initiative, which aims to Most concerning, the rate as part of the Commonwealth (2) Expand the pool of techniques and promoting organised by the International Women’s Development Agency in leverage the expertise of former of increase in women MPs Heads of Government Meeting, qualified and capable linkages with supportive civil partnership with the Myanmar NGO, Akhaya, which provided a successful the Queensland women Members of Parliament worldwide is now stagnating, with focused on the theme ‘An women to run for election, society organisations. mentoring programme to support women MPs in Myanmar using current Parliament from to support sitting women MPs. an increase of only one percent Empowered Future for Women including through initiating (3) Transform gender norms and former Members of Australian Federal and State Parliaments in 2017. 1989-2006. She now I thank the Commonwealth from 23% in December 2016 to and Girls’.6 programmes that boost so that women are accepted 3 works as a consultant Women Parliamentarians (CWP) 24% in December 2018. The CWF developed an women’s confidence and as legitimate and effective leaders including through contribution they make to for the privilege to champion this It is evident from extensive Outcome Statement and called developing campaigns that decision-making, can contribute across the Asia-Pacific program and promote it across global research that a multi- on the Commonwealth Heads Commonwealth Women’s Forum 2018, Outcome sensitize the media, male to changing gender norms. Thus, region with a range of the Commonwealth. faceted approach is required.4 of Government to implement a Statement: ‘An Empowered Future for Women political leaders and electorate attitudes can change when international agencies In 2001, women comprised Women’s political under- number of recommendations and Girls’, 16-18 April 2018, London. on the need for women in voters and male leaders learn to increase the political 14% of MPs in the Parliaments representation is due to the to increase gender equality. • Recommendation 2: Build on the global movement to accelerate public life at all levels. about and experience successful of the world. In 2019, women combined effect of institutional Recommendations 2 and 6 were progress to gender equity and empowerment and to use the (4) Support women leaders women MPs who perform their and parliamentary still comprise only 24% of and structural constraints, as well Secretariat’s convening power to bring together a high profile and in gender-sensitive political roles honestly and effectively, representation of MPs, indicating the extent as cultural and attitudinal barriers visible taskforce of champions made up of both male and female institutions, including delivering for their constituencies women. She was of the challenge ahead to that suggest women should “In 2001, women leaders from political, public and private sectors at the national, Parliament, political parties and serving their countries. They the Gender Expert achieve gender equality. In this not have a leading role in public regional and local levels to champion gender equality and promote and Electoral Management can also be influenced by women article, I would like to review life. While temporary special comprised 14% women’s access to leadership positions across the Commonwealth, Bodies to attract, promote performing well in the high-level with Commonwealth the current parliamentary measures, such as candidate and to hold governments and businesses accountable on reaching and retain women leaders, roles of Speaker, Minister, Prime Election Observer representation of women across quotas and reserved seats, are of MPs in the the global target of 50% representation across all levels of decision- and highlight the constructive Minister or President. Groups in Ghana and the Commonwealth, and describe a powerful tool, and work should Parliaments of making. contribution they make to Such women MPs can Nigeria. Dr Clark is the role the CWP Alumni Initiative continue on implementing • Recommendation 6: Heads, drawing on Commonwealth good decision-making. demonstrate to their male can play in contributing to such measures, but they alone the world. In practice and experience, develop practical strategies and legislation colleagues, and the wider currently a member the goal of gender equality in are not enough. The other 2019, women still that increases women’s access to leadership from the grassroots CWP Alumni Initiative community, that women do in fact of the Australian women’s representation by 2030. recognised barriers also need to to national and international levels, to enable meaningful political The CWP has primarily focussed make good political leaders and Pacific Women Gender be addressed, particularly deeply comprise only 24% leadership, by women. Call on Heads to commit to working with its efforts on supporting achieve positive results for their Advisory Panel and has Current parliamentary entrenched gender norms. of MPs, indicating all political parties and systems to increase the proportion of women leaders in Parliaments, communities. Women MPs can representation of women I recently contributed to the women candidates. This includes training, sponsorship, mentoring which matches the fourth also serve as role models for the just been appointed as Women currently comprise 24% design of a new program funded the extent of the programmes, and access to networks and mentoring programmes component in the UN Women’s next generation of young women the Champion for the of MPs in the lower houses by the Australian Government challenge ahead such as the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) and the strategy. However, it has also and encourage them to aspire to CWP Alumni Initiative. of national Parliaments in the to increase women’s political Commonwealth Women in Local Government Network (ComWLG), recognised that success in a career in politics. Commonwealth, matching participation in the Pacific region, to achieve gender with particular attention given to creating opportunities for young supporting women Members The new CWP Alumni Initiative, the world-wide parliamentary where advocacy campaigns to equality.” women and girls. and highlighting the constructive as outlined in the CWP Strategic

56 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue One | 100th year of publishing The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue One | 100th year of publishing | 57 WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN: WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN: INTRODUCING THE COMMONWEALTH INTRODUCING THE COMMONWEALTH WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS ALUMNI INITIATIVE ALUMNI INITIATIVE

Plan (2017-19), proposes using enhance the evidence base of the and proven technique used to help mentor for women candidates Left: A women’s campaign the expertise of former women value of women’s participation in women progress their careers and MPs enormously rewarding. training programme in the Parliamentarians to support Parliament.10 in the public and private sector. Mentoring is a two-way process, Solomon Islands. sitting women Parliamentarians to Support to women MPs It is also a successful method of which involves a peer-to-peer increase their effectiveness and to increase their substantive supporting women candidates relationship based on mutual Nkumba University, 2014, Mapping assist them to become successful representation has the potential to win elections, as shown by the respect. I have learned such a lot the Substantive Representation of role models. Achieving this goal to achieve the following benefits: work of EMILY’s List, which began from the women I have worked Women in the Ugandan Parliament. will in fact support many of the • Changed cultural attitudes in the United States and now also with in the Asia Pacific region, 9 Emily’s List Australia, 2018, strategies identified in the CWP on the part of male MPs and operates in the United Kingdom and I now have an increased Impact Analysis: Legislative and Policy Strategic Plan as well as other voters and Australia. Established in understanding of their cultures Achievements of Emily’s List Australia strategies like the UN Women’s • Increased number of woman 1996, EMILY’s List Australia and challenges. Women in Power – Andrews Labor Theory of Change. candidates nominated to has supported the successful Australian MP, Lisa Chesters Government 2014 – 2018. Thus, the CWP Alumni stand for election election of more than 235 women summed up her experience as a 10 IPU, The Value of Women’s Initiative recognises the necessity • Increased pool of women candidates with financial support, mentor in this way: “Mentoring is Participation in Parliament: Enhancing of moving beyond mere numbers MPs able to be promoted to mentoring and training. Many have a two-way street. As a mentor you the Evidence Base – a research and focusses on the impact higher levels gone on to come political leaders, should feel comfortable sharing project, TOR, https://www.ipu.org/ and influence that women MPs • More young women including the former Australian some of your concerns, your sites/default/files/documents/ipu_ can and do have in Parliament, considering a career in Prime Minister, Rt Hon. Julia anxieties. We’re all on a journey wip_study_2018_tor_21sept18.pdf. in their political parties and the politics Gillard and the female Premiers of and there is no silver bullet. It’s not 11 Chandan Kumar Jha and wider community - i.e. moving • Improved governance Queensland and Tasmania.12 a senior, junior relationship. It’s a Sudipta Sarangi, 2018, ‘Women and from descriptive to substantive and reduction in levels of Mentoring has also been peer to peer relationship. Mutual corruption: What positions must they representation.8 corruption11 used as a strategy to support respect is critical. I’ve probably hold to make a difference?’, Journal of The EMILY’s List Australia • Government policies, newly elected women MPs. learnt more from my mentor, rather Economic Behavior and Organization, Impact Analysis Report provides legislation and funding that For example, the International than the other way around … It 151, pp 219–233. a summary of the substantial advances gender equality Women’s Development Agency makes you think critically of the 12 https://www.emilyslist.org.au/ impact of women MPs in • More gender sensitive (IWDA), in partnership with the work you’re doing in the electorate November 2017 with Pacific Alumni Initiative and how you parliament-in-2017-year-in-review. about/. the Government of Victoria Parliaments. Myanmar non-governmental … Quite often your mentee will MPs from Fiji, Niue and Tonga and your Parliament can become 4 Pacific Women, Women 13 IWDA and Akhaya, Learning in Australia on policies and It is proposed that mentoring organisation (NGO), Akhaya, challenge you as well. And that’s being mentored by New Zealand involved, please contact the CPA in Leadership Synthesis Report: Review: Myanmar Women legislation between 2014-18, will be used as the key strategy began piloting a successful really healthy. It’s really rewarding women MPs.15 Feedback from Headquarters Secretariat or your Informing the Pacific Women Shaping Parliamentarians Mentoring Pilot categorised according to five to achieve the goals of the CWP mentoring program in 2017 to because you then start to do your both New Zealand and Pacific CPA Regional Secretariat. Pacific Development Roadmap Program, August 2018, https://iwda. core principles – Equity, Equal Alumni Initiative. Former women support women MPs in Myanmar own self-exploration.” women MPs was very positive, As Champion for the CWP 2017–2022, March 2017, http:// org.au/resource/myanmar-women- Pay, Choice, Diversity and Members will be recruited to act as using current and former Mentoring programs have also with lessons learnt including: the Alumni Initiative, I look forward www.pacificwomen.org/wp-content/ parliamentarians-mentoring-pilot- Child Care.9 Further research is mentors for newly elected women Australian women MPs, including been initiated by the Australian need for flexibility; commitment to meeting past and current uploads/Leadership_SynthesisReport_ learning-review/. currently being undertaken by MPs and Senators, as well as for myself.13 The pilot evaluation and New Zealand Parliaments to long term support and regular women MPs from across the FINAL_April2017.pdf. 14 Leanganook Yarn, Mid-Term the Inter-Parliamentary Union to those seeking support to progress confirmed the mentoring to support women MPs from contact; and a willingness to Commonwealth and encouraging 5 UNDP, 2016, Temporary Special Evaluation of the Pacific Women their parliamentary career to a higher experience supported Myanmar the Parliaments of the Pacific learn from each other.16 The New them to become involved in this Measures to Increase Women’s Parliamentary Partnerships Project Below: Dr Lesley Clark has level. It is therefore intended that MPs to: Islands Forum countries. The Zealand mentoring program exciting new initiative. In the Political participation in the Pacific: 2013-2018, March 2017. been the Gender Expert with a database will be created in each • Improve public speaking mid-term evaluation of the is continuing in 2019 with words of the CWP International Case Studies of Implementation in the 15 New Zealand Parliament, 2017, several Commonwealth Election region of former women MPs who skills and confidence to Australian Pacific Women mentoring programs planned for Chairperson, Hon. Dr Dato’ Noraini Region, http://www.pacific.undp.org/ Pacific Mentoring Programme Helps Observer Missions across the are interested in becoming mentors engage in political debates Parliamentary Partnership Project women MPs from Fiji and the Ahmad, MP (Malaysia) - “Together content/dam/fiji/docs/UNDP%20 Women MPs Share Experiences, world including in Ghana and to help to widen the network. • Gain knowledge and insights (2013-2018), which included a Cook Islands.17 we can and will build the future we PO%20TSM_Womens%20 https://www.parliament.nz/en/get- Nigeria. Mentoring is a well-established into political strategies such mentoring program component, The CWP Alumni Initiative want, working towards a future of Political%20Participation.pdf. involved/features/pacific-mentoring- as continuous campaigning found that effective mentoring will learn from these and other equal rights, equal opportunities 6 Commonwealth Women’s programme-helps-women-mps- • Engage their electorates on programs require: clear goals; the mentoring programs for women and progress for all.”18 Forum 2018, Outcome Statement: share-experiences/. gender equality issues provision of adequate resources; MPs. It will be supported by a ‘An Empowered Future for Women 16 CWP Masterclass, The • Expand their connections to and dedicated management. CPA Masterclass video to be References: and Girls’, 16-18 April 2018, London. Importance of Mentoring for the women’s movement and The evaluation recommended published online which will outline 1 Clark, L Gender Balance in 7 UN Women, UN Women Parliamentarians with a Special Focus become active supporters of that any future mentoring the benefits of mentoring, the Parliament: which electoral system can Theory of Change: Women’s Political on Gender, delivered by Ms Munokoa gender equality. component should recruit retired roles of mentors and mentees best promote the equitable representation Empowerment and Leadership, Poto Williams, MP, New Zealand As a result of the success of Pacific women Parliamentarians and how to develop and by women? The Parliamentarian, 2001, see Innovating for Impact: A Pacific Parliament, www.cpahq.org/cpahq/ the pilot program, another six and retired Australian women maintain a successful, rewarding Issue Four p341-348. Regional Consultation on Women’s cpamasterclasses women MPs will be selected Parliamentarians with appropriate mentoring relationship. However, 2 IPU Women in Parliament, Political Empowerment and 17 Personal communication, in 2019 and I will continue my skills and commitment, as the key to the success of the http://archive.ipu.org/wmn-e/arc/ Leadership Background Paper, 13-15 Wendy Hart, CPA Pacific Regional support as a mentor. IWDA is also proposed in the CWP Alumni program will be the fact that it world011218.htm. September 2016, Nadi, Fiji. Secretary. currently expanding the mentoring Initiative.14 will be driven by the women MPs 3 IPU, 2018, Women in Parliament 8 Center for Women in 18 Commonwealth Women program to Timor Leste. The New Zealand Parliament themselves; by their needs and in 2017: The Year in Review, https:// Government and Civil Society, Parliamentarians 2018 Newsletter, I have found sharing my and CWP Pacific Region their goals. If you would like to www.ipu.org/resources/publications/ Rockefeller College of Public Affairs Message from the CWP Chairperson, knowledge and experience as a mentoring program began in find out more about the CWP reports/2018-03/women-in- and Policy, University at Albany and p 1.

GENDER INEQUALITY: NOW IS THE TIME FOR ALL PARLIAMENTARIANS TO DELIVER CHANGE Male Parliamentarians as ‘agents of change’

As the 30th anniversary of the society they serve. power imbalance which helps establishment of Commonwealth The rise in the use of social facilitate this abuse. Women Parliamentarians media has improved access The current CWP strategy (CWP) approaches, I have been to information and opinions. was developed during a meeting Branches, of a ‘male champion empowerment; ending violence Above left and above right: The Commonwealth Women reflecting on how the lives of Used properly, it is a powerful of its Steering Group and other of change’ to ‘ensure that male against women and engaging Parliamentarians (CWP) network met at the 63rd Commonwealth women have changed over this democratic tool for politicians to women Parliamentarians from Parliamentarians also carry men in the gender agenda. The Parliamentary Conference (CPC) in Dhaka, Bangladesh and period and, in particular, the engage with their communities. 16 Commonwealth countries the torch for gender equality in ‘male champion’ initiative is a focused on the equal representation for women in Parliaments and participation of women in politics. However, online abuse, towards in February 2017 including Commonwealth Parliaments and pillar of the CWP Strategic Plan. gender empowerment. In a first for the CWP, a workshop session Over the past 30 years, anyone, regardless of gender, a Member of the Scottish Legislatures’.* I have hopes that a was held at the 63rd CPC on the role of male Parliamentarians in women have fought to gain sexual orientation, religion, Parliament, Ms Margaret Although I am not keen on Commonwealth-wide network championing gender equality which was attended by both male and better access to higher political persuasion, is totally Mitchell, MSP. An initiative to the name ‘male champions’ itself, of CWP ‘male champions of female Parliamentarians at the conference. Male Parliamentarians Maurice Corry, education and more diverse unacceptable, detrimental and emerge from this was the call the objectives of the initiative change’ will be established to from Rwanda, Scotland and Fiji presented their experiences to the MSP is a Member of career opportunities. For does nothing to advance the for the appointment, by all CPA include raising awareness share knowledge and experience workshop and the discussion covered a wide range of views and the Scottish Parliament, example, through increased cause of informed discussion. of the importance of gender and learn from each other and experiences from different jurisdictions. first elected in 2016. participation in higher education When social media is used as representation and gender to support the work of the CWP. and having more diverse career a tool to harass and intimidate “As we have seen sensitive policy development As far as I know, I am the only He is a Member of the opportunities. More women are those people involved in public both within Branches and one appointed thus far! However, Cross-Party Group on now in senior roles and positions life, there is a danger that with the #MeToo across the wider CPA and CWP perhaps a network of ‘change Women’s Justice and he of influence. However, there is freedom of speech can become movement, networks. agents’ for gender equality, of is a spokesperson for still a long way to go. Although curtailed and thus the democratic The CPA Scotland Branch both women and men, might be a the number of women in such experience is compromised. gender equality Executive Committee responded better way forward. Community Safety and positions has increased over this The #MeToo movement is not just a to the CWP and I was appointed A long-time supporter of the Veterans Affairs. Prior to period, the ‘glass ceiling’ only has has shone a light on the as the ‘CWP male champion’ work of the CWP, Hon. Lechesa his election, he served a small crack, there remains a abuse of power and opened ‘women’s issue’, for the Scottish Parliament in Tsenoli, MP, Deputy Speaker of in the British Army and long way to go before it is broken. up a new discussion about it is an issue September 2017. It is clear that the Parliament of South Africa Gender stereotypes still abound gender inequality. For too long the women Members in the has delivered an interesting and he served as a local – albeit sometimes more subtly inappropriate behaviour has about structures Scottish Parliament do not need informative CPA Masterclass councillor, a position he than 30 years ago. been viewed as ‘the way things and powers a male to speak on their behalf, video on ‘The role of male MPs Below: Long-time supporter of the work of the CWP, Hon. Lechesa continues today. In 1999, when the Scottish are’. However, #MeToo has they are more than capable of as Agents of Change’ which is Tsenoli, MP, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of South Africa films Parliament met for the first time encouraged men and women within society doing so themselves. So, since available online. I urge fellow a CPA Masterclass video on ‘The role of male MPs as Agents of in almost 300 years, 37% of its across the globe not only to call and therefore being appointed, I have tried Commonwealth Parliamentarians Change’ which is available online at newly elected representatives out inappropriate behaviour but to define what this role should to watch these videos at www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpamasterclasses. were women – at the time one also to think about the structural is an issue that involve and how I could help. www.cpahq.org/cpahq/ of the highest percentages in inequalities which need to be everyone should I am keen to take this role cpamasterclasses. any Parliament in the world. At addressed and the action that seriously so in November 2018 I also urge Members, through the last election, this figure has needs to be taken to address this be concerned I met with the current CWP their respective CPA Branches, reduced to 35% and according imbalance of power. about. This will Chairperson, Hon. Dato’ Noraini to consider this initiative from to global rankings published by As we have seen with the Ahmad, MP (Malaysia) to discuss the CWP and to feed in their the Inter-Parliamentary Union, #MeToo movement, gender of course involve the current CWP strategy. This views on how discussion and the Scottish Parliament has now equality is not just a ‘women’s addressing this sets out the gender priorities. I consideration in this area is best slipped to 27th place. Twenty issue’, it is an issue about was struck by her enthusiasm taken forward, by both female years on, conversations about structures and powers within power imbalance to renew the effort to increase and male Parliamentarians. ensuring women are equally society and therefore is an which helps women’s political participation represented in the Scottish issue that everyone should be across the Commonwealth and *Commonwealth Women Parliament are still taking place. concerned about. This will of facilitate this her determination to focus on Parliamentarians (CWP) Strategic Parliaments must reflect the course involve addressing this abuse.” women in leadership; economic Plan 2017-2019, page 12.

Left: Ivy Forster was table. And despite some signs ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE IN JERSEY elected as a Deputy for of change, we still see women Historical timeline of St Helier in 1948, the first taking the brunt of domestic Women in Politics in Jersey As a series of exhibitions and events are women in Jersey to be duties, even when they work full- • 1919: A law is passed th successfully elected. time. Why is it, for example, that enabling female rate-payers organised to mark the 100 anniversary of girls out-perform boys at school aged over 30, and non-rate- women’s suffrage in Jersey, the Assistant Greffier and university, but by the time paying men aged over 21, of the States Assembly takes a look at the history Image credits: States Assembly, Jersey As a Deputy, Kristina the woman falls pregnant, if the to vote. was elected solely by the couple has to make an economic • 1922: Caroline Trachy of Jersey women in politics. residents of the parish decision over who has the best stands for election to the of St Peter. She held the career prospects, the woman is States but is disallowed as it In 1919, women in Jersey were by the women of Great Britain.” during that time, Ivy had helped position for two terms, often already behind in terms of is illegal for women to sit in given the vote – provided they However, when the petition escaped Russian slave workers then last year, she decided pay and prospects, so decides the States. were over 30 years of age and a reached the States, it was only who had been brought to the to seek an Island-wide to stay at home as paying for • 1923: The Women Jersey rate-payer. One hundred years moderately successful. A law Island by the Nazis. For almost mandate and stand for the childcare doesn’t stack up? Political Union is formed. on, women are able to vote passed in February 1924 that two years, Ivy had sheltered position of Senator. She “What I think puts many • 1924: Women who are British without those restrictions, but made women eligible to stand as Russian prisoner-of-war, Geigori came second in the poll, women off is that first hurdle. subjects, aged over 30 and they are still a minority voice in Deputies, but only if they were Koslov, in her attic. She was Ivy died at the age of which was topped by another Putting yourself out there before whose property affairs are Jersey’s Parliament. separated. A second law, the arrested in May 1944, but 90 in June 1997 and was female candidate, Senator Tracey the electorate and expecting separate from those of their Married Women’s Property Act, managed to avoid deportation posthumously named in 2010 as Vallois. people to vote for you. We have husband, are permitted to stand Jersey’s first female election was passed in February 1925, due to illness, and was permitted one of 29 ‘British Heroes of the “One kindly observer’s advice established an organisation for election to the States of candidate – Caroline Trachy which removed the rate-paying to serve her sentence on-Island. Holocaust’ by the then UK Prime was that I had a good chance, called ‘Jersey Women in Politics’ Jersey. Anna Goodyear Women in Jersey were able to vote clause from a woman’s eligibility, After Jersey’s liberation, Minister, Gordon Brown. after all, they said, there is always to help and support women • 1925: Caroline Trachy was born in Jersey and in elections from 1919 but it took but did not permit married Ivy became an after-dinner “It has been man’s prerogative a token female vote,” Senator who are interested in Jersey’s stands for election to the holds a BA (Honours) the repeated efforts of one woman women to stand for election. speaker, giving talks on her from time immemorial to govern Moore said. “Well we proved last political system and in standing States but is disallowed to become a politician before the In the wake of those changes, experiences during the war, and this Island, and I do not suggest year that voters don’t just give for election to the States. Shaping because her property affairs degree in English from law was changed to enable women Caroline stood again in the 1925 was encouraged by the then that 100% women, or even women a sympathy vote. The the future path for our Island is so are not separate from those the University of Exeter. to stand for election. election but was disqualified by Bailiff, Alexander Coutanche, to 50-50, would be the perfect people of Jersey placed women in important and by ensuring that a of her husband. She began her career In December 1922, Caroline the Royal Court and the Bailiff stand for election. After being choice, but I do most sincerely first, second and seventh place in diverse range of opinions is heard, • 1928: Caroline Trachy as a journalist with the Trachy stood for election as a on the grounds that she was not elected as Jersey’s first female suggest that women’s opinion in the May 2018 election. and a proper debate is had, we successfully stands for Deputy in the parish of St Helier. separated. Her response was that politician in 1948, Ivy went on to the States Assembly would not “Twenty-seven percent of the can take Jersey on the right path election, but is not elected. Jersey Evening Post Jersey’s Deputies are elected by she would not “prejudice other become the first woman to top be detrimental to the governing Members of the States Assembly to equality of representation in the • 1930: The voting age for then started work for residents of the district or parish married women by being separated” the poll when she was re-elected of the Island.” - Ivy Forster, 1907 are women. But why aren’t States.” women is lowered to 21. the States Greffe as and are appointed as voting and would continue her fight. in 1951 but her political career - 1997. women taking half of the seats in • 1945: Men and women are st a Committee Clerk Members of the States Assembly. The States went on to change came to an end when she lost her the 21 century? Particularly in Details of the events being held permitted to vote in Jersey Caroline was successfully the law and in April 1928, seat in 1954. Women in the States today Jersey, where there are so many in Jersey throughout 2019 to on an equal basis for the first in 2008. Anna was proposed and seconded, but Caroline became an eligible Jersey’s Parliament has 49 seats, more economically active women mark the centenary of women’s time when the requirement to appointed to the post she was disallowed after the candidate for the upcoming Below: Caroline Trachy was but since Ivy’s time in the States, than there are in most places in suffrage will be published on the be a rate-payer is removed. of Assistant Greffier of nomination process on the election, but was not elected by the first women to stand for only 43 other women have ever the world. It is an important time to States Assembly website: www. • 1948: Ivy Forster is elected the States of Jersey in grounds that, although women the people of Jersey and ranked election as a Deputy in Jersey in been elected to serve as a States take stock and consider where we statesassembly.gov.je. to the States as Jersey’s first could nominate and vote in last in the polls. It would be December 1922. Member. The Members of the are. Only 44 women have ever female politician. October 2014. States elections, they were not another 20 years before States Assembly are elected to been elected in Jersey. The parish eligible to stand. the first female States the positions of Senator, Deputy of St Ouen has never elected Caroline founded the Jersey Member would be sworn and Constable, and all have equal a female Constable or Deputy Women Political Union on 9 April into office. voting rights in the Assembly. and seven parishes have never 1923, which aimed to obtain “full The only difference between the had a female Constable. One political and civil rights for women in Jersey’s first female categories of Members is the way wing of our General Hospital has Jersey, embracing legal and moral politician – Ivy Forster in which they are elected, with been named after the first female support to women in difficulties It was 30 years after women Senators being elected by the Senator, Gwenyth Huelin, but caused by present, unjust laws.” in Jersey secured the right whole electorate, and Deputies there are no other rooms named On 17 August 1923, the to vote that the first female and Constables being elected by after women in any of our public Right: Senator Kristina Union submitted a General was elected as a Member of voters in the parish or district in buildings. Moore is one of the Petition to the States requesting the States of Jersey. which they stand for election. “A former Constable of Island’s 13 current full civil rights for women. The Ivy Forster was elected One of the Island’s 13 current St Lawrence, Iris Le Feuvre, female politicians. She journal ‘The Vote’ described as a Deputy for St. Helier female politicians is Senator famously said that her husband was first elected in that petition as asking “for the in 1948. Jersey had been Kristina Moore who, in November did not have a problem with November 2011, the granting to women of full civil occupied by the Nazis 2011, was elected as first female her being a States Member, as first female Deputy for and political rights now enjoyed during World War II and Deputy for the parish of St Peter. long as his dinner was on the the parish of St Peter.

I was elected to the States A PERSONAL VIEW: THOUGHTS ON GENDER EQUALITY at a by-election nearly five years ago. I joined a team which had been totally male since 2010. IN PARLIAMENTS FROM A VERY SMALL ISLAND During my term of office, which has spanned two elections, no more women have been elected, although several have stood.

“Perhaps of greater influence Alderney is indeed a very small Alderney is a self-governing, with their roles and before the island. For those who may be democratic territory and one next election, in which to achieve on potential unsure of its whereabouts it is of the principal islands of the policy goals. The possibility candidates is the most northerly of the Channel Bailiwick of Guernsey. The of change is being discussed Islands and lies about 13km to the Channel Islands have never been as part of some governance the fact that the west of the Cotentin Peninsula of subject to the British Parliament reform. In addition, two States independent France. The island is about 5.5km and their relationship with the of Alderney Members are full by 2.5km with a population of just UK is with the Crown through members of the Guernsey States spirit of Alderney over 2,000 people. the Privy Council. The island has of Deliberation and take part in residents means It is perhaps best known for always been outside the EU and the government of the Bailiwick the reference to the Alderney the UK looks after the Channel with full voting rights. that we have a Since 1945, there has never been In all fairness, we as a States as part of governance reform. Norma Paris is a cow in A.A. Milne’s poem ‘The Islands in the fields of foreign very lively and more than three women serving do not reflect the make-up of Perhaps of greater influence former Member of the King’s Breakfast’ and the Womble affairs, defence and the islands’ together at any particular time. the island community in more on potential candidates is the States of Alderney. She Alderney who was named after the association with the EU. “It is generally active democracy. I did not stand for re-election ways than this. There is also a fact that the independent spirit stood down at the last author Elizabeth Beresford’s home. We have our own directly accepted that Politics here in December 2018 and the new significant under representation of Alderney residents means that However, on a more serious elected assembly, administrative, States still consists of nine men of younger people, too. As with an we have a very lively and active election in December note, Alderney’s position in the fiscal and legal systems and our organisations is not for the and one woman. Of the five seats increasing number of jurisdictions democracy. Politics here is not for 2018 having served English Channel has given it an own court of law. Some of this whose faint hearted. available, two sitting Members we have an ageing demographic the faint hearted. In such a small historical strategic and military structure is still based in ancient were re-elected and three new and it is often these people, still community you are bound to be for nearly five years as management In such a small the only woman of the importance far in excess of the Norman Law tradition dating back Members. Interestingly, our ‘new very active, who are able and well known to the majority of your size of the island. It has been to when the islands became part team closely community you girl on the block’ topped the poll. willing to offer their knowledge electorate who will, rest assured, ten States Members. subject to periods of intensive of the British Crown after William, In a jurisdiction where turnout to and expertise to do what is engage with you whenever the She held the Chair fortification from Roman times Duke of Normandy invaded reflects the are bound to be vote is high (60% at this election, perceived to be a part time job, desire or opportunity presents of the Business right through to the Second England in 1066. Queen Elizabeth make-up of their well known to the often approaching 70%) and a for a low rate of pay. Indeed, until itself. Feelings can run very high Development, Tourism World War. One of our forts II is our Head of State and our loyal system where there are no party relatively recently it was unpaid, over relatively personal matters as is Roman in origin, most were toast is ‘The Queen, Our Duke’. customers, or majority of your allegiances in play, topping the as those who served before well as major policy decisions. and Marketing fortifications built during the The States of Alderney consists in the case of electorate who poll carries weight. I shall observe 2003 often remind us. All this We are a representative Committee for one French Revolutionary and of a President and ten States from afar with great interest and I experience needs to be leavened democracy and as Matthew Parris year and the Chair of Napoleonic Wars and then Members. The President chairs governments, will, rest assured, most sincerely wish her well. with more youthful views and (no relation) pointed out whilst the General Services overbuilt during Victorian times. the States Meetings and stands their electorate, engage with However, it is generally ways of communicating. However, writing in The Times a little while All, including the Roman one, for election every four years. The accepted that organisations to take on a poorly paid and ago “politics negotiates with popular Committee for two show evidence of conversion into role is essentially politically neutral. tend to be more you whenever whose management team probably insecure job, where most opinion, it doesn’t take dictation.” years as well as German strongpoints during the States Members also hold office successful. If for the desire or closely reflects the make-up of of the time commitment is during This can be a particularly fine Second World War, as Alderney for four years, but elections are their customers, or in the case the day, whilst holding down a job line to tread here in Alderney. serving on several no other reason, opportunity other committees. became part of Hitler’s Atlantic staggered so that five seats come of governments, their electorate, and/or raising a family is a tough Loudly expressed opinions are Wall. After the surrender of up for election every two years. this is because presents itself. tend to be more successful. If for call. To leave one’s job would be not necessarily accurate or even Before entering German Forces in 1945 the Thus continuity is maintained. no other reason, this is because risky. Our low unemployment the views of the majority and politics she was island, which had effectively There would never be a they are more Feelings can run they are more in tune with the figures disguise the fact that jobs there is a great responsibility on involved in publishing been evacuated in 1940, saw the circumstance of ten entirely new in tune with the very high over concerns and aspirations of are not plentiful here as anyone States Members to make sure and general aviation. return of some of the population Members, and we always have their market place or electorate. unable to find a job tends to move they are very well informed and to the island. The Homecoming, an experienced parliamentary concerns and relatively personal At a seemingly steady 10% off island to seek work. as objective as possible about the which is still just within living body. Unfortunately, this also aspirations of matters as well of Members, our female We do not have any policies in subjects they must vote on. memory, is commemorated means that there is a relatively representation is dismally low. We place to attract young or female I came to politics here from a every year on the date of the short period of stability, after new their market place as major policy are on a par with the Democratic candidates. In my view this is another successful business career, - yes. anniversary. Members become acquainted or electorate.” decisions.” Republic of North Korea. issue which needs to be addressed I may be female, but I am one of

the oldies - and I am sufficiently that as the lone woman there the three major Committees most important heritage sites confident in my abilities to be have been some decidedly enshrined in law. I have been and we have created a new use Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians at inaugural Women Leaders Global able to stand my ground and ‘off message’ moments. I have elected the Chair of one of these, for it. This will enable it to be speak my mind. However, when I been accused of being bossy the General Services Committee, open to the public and, hopefully, Forum in Iceland discuss positive developments for women in leadership have lobbied other women whom and wanting my own way. for the past two years and was make a contribution to its future I think would make excellent, Perhaps in the description of a the Vice-Chair for the two years upkeep. The seventeenth century Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians from across the hardworking States Members I man in my role this might well before that. General Services is barracks building contained network attended the inaugural Women Leaders Global Forum, am told by them, almost without translate as being decisive and an old-fashioned name for what within the curtilage of our which was held between 26 and 28 November 2018, in Reykjavik, exception, that the rough and goal orientated? I have grown might well be called Environment Roman Fort has been converted Iceland. The Women Leaders Global Forum is where women tumble of how our democracy accustomed to having many of my and Infrastructure elsewhere. An into hostel accommodation leaders discuss and share ideas and solutions on how to further works does not appeal to them. I ideas received in silence and then attempt was made to change its for those coming on island to advance society, increase equality between women and men find this a slightly sad reflection ‘mansplained (man explained) name several years ago, but the pursue archeological and wildlife and promote and positively develop the number of women in on all those spirited women who back to me later. Does one need momentum of the old name soon research. It is now the home leadership positions. refused to take ‘no’ for an answer the credit for the ideas? Yes, but stopped that. of our newly accredited Bird The Forum is annually co-hosted by Women Political Leaders when seeking the vote. the next best thing is to see them In a truly sexist working Observatory which has received (WPL), and the Government and the Parliament of Iceland, There is no doubt that our translated into action. Naturally, environment it would be regarded extensive publicity as the sheer and is co-chaired by leaders of the OECD, World Bank, World electorate can be formidable and I am accused of nagging, but as as a ‘blue’ rather than a ‘pink’ job. scale and richness of our bird Economic Forum and others. The forum was founded by Silvana sometimes grumpy, but another any woman will tell you nagging is We may be a small island but populations becomes apparent. Koch-Mehrin, Founder and President of the Women Political image of a sunny afternoon merely the unwelcome repetition we face nearly all the issues of a This has been a landmark project, Leaders (WPL), and Hanna Birna Kristjansdottir, Chair of WPL’s always springs to my mind. After of unpalatable facts. nation state and many of these hopefully the first of several to Executive Board, who were inspired by the World Economic the funeral of a local dignitary, However, that is about as far fall within the mandate of the find a sensitive use for an old Forum and wanted to devise a women’s forum. They chose I sat on the wall outside our as it goes. I am paid the same General Services Committee. We building of significant historical Iceland as the host as it is the best country for women, according community hall with about half a amount as my male colleagues have responsibility for the roads, value and I am proud to have to the WEF’s Global Gender Gap Report. dozen other mourners. Whilst we and I have found throughout the water supply, the harbour, sea been associated with it. The inaugural Women Leaders Global Forum featured keynote ate sandwiches, drank tea and my term of office that our small fisheries, coastal erosion, waste One of my colleagues pointed speakers, all internationally recognised for their contribution to basked in the sunshine there was civil service team has always disposal, the upkeep of States out to me early in my political advancing society and 400 delegates from over 100 countries, a wide-ranging discussion about been immensely helpful. It is an owned properties, agriculture career that, in his opinion, any who attended two days of workshops as well as bilateral meetings Territorial offices in Canada. In my presentation, I was able to various issues of the day. And all interesting aside that the male/ and environmental monitoring, successful woman always has and events. The Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians were share why it is so important for partisan politics to be set aside on first name terms. There are few female balance of senior roles recreation and sports activities. a man behind her. This is an represented at the Forum by Hon. Laura Ross, MLA (Saskatchewan), so that work undertaken with CWP will be successful. It is the jurisdictions where such informal in our civil service reflects our Apart from the housekeeping interesting take on the old sexist the Chairperson of the CWP Canadian Region who said: “As the Chair advancement and the encouragement of women of all political access to politicians is available. island demographics much that such a broad mandate joke that ‘behind every successful of CWP Canada Region, I was honoured to be invited to attend the stripes to seek public office.” So, how has it been working more accurately than States entails, during my two years man there is a surprised woman’. Women Leaders Global Forum 2018 alongside four hundred women The Women Leaders Global Forum continued with with my nine male colleagues? Membership. in office, the Committee has In some respects, and this is from over 100 countries. This Forum was the perfect opportunity to presentations on women as change-makers in the digital I would be speaking less than The routine matters of brought to fruition a major project definitely one of them, it is true network with fellow legislators, business and community leaders. The revolution and it was noted that entrepreneurship is integral to the the truth if I did not acknowledge government are performed by with the renovation of one of our that we are stubbornly behind the objectives of both CWP and WPL are very similar in that increasing world economy and that women need to be fully engaged. A key times here, but the upside of this the number of women and their influence within their Legislatures is session at the Forum looked at ‘The World Atlas of Women’ and is that few people lock up their our main objective. Having more women sitting at the decision-making the measurements taken across the world showing the differences homes or their cars, it is safe to tables changes politics and public policies. in parity in the distribution of political and business power. walk home alone at night and you A large number of delegates had the opportunity to present The Women Leaders Global Forum’s mission is to provide would never lie dead in your bed, to the Forum on the current situation within their respective a platform where women leaders discuss and share ideas and undiscovered for weeks. We are a countries on the status of elected women within all levels of solutions on how to further advance society, increase equality caring, close knit community and government. Many of the presenters also talked about quotas so between women and men and promote and positively develop the that is almost beyond price. that more women would be able to be elected to public office. number of women in leadership positions. Under the heading ‘We I had the opportunity to present on behalf of the CWP and to Can Do It’, the 2018 theme was ‘Digitalisation’ and the way it has give the perspective of the CWP Canada Region on the present created an increasingly interconnected world, single-handedly status of the number of women elected to Federal, Provincial and changing the way we live, work and love.

Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians attend the first historic Women MPs of the World Conference at the UK Parliament

In a historic first, women MPs from five continents and almost 100 countries including many Members of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP), Image credits: UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor. met in the ‘Mother of Parliaments’ in Westminster for a unique conference, held to mark 100 years

since the first women in the United Image credits: UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor. Kingdom gained the right to stand Conference at No. 10 Downing Street at which she said: “The women and Equalities Select Committee, United Kingdom; Nikki Kaye, for election to Parliament. The here come from many nations, many cultures and many backgrounds. MP, Opposition Spokesperson for Education, New Zealand; Hon. conference was granted the rare We have lived very different lives, we hold different political beliefs, but Lindiwe Zulu, Minister of Small Business Development, South Africa; privilege to hold its proceedings in each of us have answered the unique calling that is public service. And Jessie Kabwila, MP, Malawi; Hon. Sarah Flood, Saint Lucia; Hon. the House of Commons Chamber we all have the privilege of serving our communities and our countries Nafisa Shah, MNA, Pakistan; Hon. Cynthia Forde, MP, Barbados; at the Parliament of the United Kingdom on 8 November 2018. The historic event was co-hosted by the United Kingdom in our national legislatures. Celebrating is something we should Hon. Jovah Kamateeka, MP, Uganda; Hon. Emilia Lolloh Tongi, MP, The one-day event brought together women MPs from around Secretary of State for International Development and Minister for be doing. Because today, 2018, we see more female Members of Sierra Leone; Princess Kasune Zulu, MP, Zambia; Dawn Butler, the world to celebrate their achievements, discuss how to strengthen Women and Equalities, Rt Hon. Penny Mordaunt, MP, who gave Parliaments and Legislative Assemblies around the world than there MP, Shadow Minister for Women and Equalities, United Kingdom; visibility and further empower women Parliamentarians to continue the opening speech in the House of Commons Chamber and the have ever been. And that is good news for all of the citizens we serve. Rushanara Ali, MP, United Kingdom. to drive change nationally and internationally. The focus of the event conference was also supported by the UK Leader of the House, More women in elected office means a greater voice speaking out on Women MPs also attended from: Colombia, Egypt, Indonesia, was to inspire the next generation, to contribute to women’s equal Rt Hon. Andrea Leadsom, MP and the former Deputy Leader issues that affect women, certainly. It also means a greater focus on Oman, Ireland, Slovakia, Venezuela, Bosnia and Herzegovina, participation in Parliaments globally, and to demonstrate how elected of the Opposition, Rt Hon. Harriet Harman, MP, who also both preventing gender-based violence, on girls’ education, on childcare Philippines, Israel, Romania, Peru, Norway, Burkina Faso, Nepal, women around the world are shaping the political agenda and making contributed to the debate in the Chamber. and on women’s health.” Turkey, Albania, Senegal, Germany, Guinea, Afghanistan, Greece, a difference to women and girls in their home countries. Delegates Secretary of State for International Development and Minister The delegates to the conference included many Members of Jordan, Brazil, Tunisia, Iceland. discussed how to advocate for greater representation of women in for Women and Equalities, Rt Hon. Penny Mordaunt, MP said: the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP): former Parliament and public life, as well as exploring the specific challenges “Without the determined and inspiring women who fought for the Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, *Rt Hon. Harriet Harman, MP is the current ‘Mother of the House’ in facing women MPs and how these might be overcome. vote, my fellow women MPs and I would not be doing the jobs Hon. Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, MP, Speaker of the Bangladesh the UK Parliament as the longest continuously serving woman MP, first Women MPs were able to share their experiences and propose we do today. We currently have the highest number of women in Parliament; Hon. Bardish Chagger, MP, Leader of the Government in elected in 1982. solutions to what can be done to help them become more effective, history sitting in the UK House of Commons, but only 32% of MPs the House of Commons, Canada; Diane Abbott, MP, Shadow Home counter harassment and abuse, balance family and political are women. Worldwide, only 24% of people elected into political Secretary, United Kingdom; Hon. Aishatu Dukku, MP, Nigeria; Ya The event was supported by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, responsibilities, and to help more women get into Parliament. office are women. We have a long way to go before we see true Kumba Jaiteh, MNA, The Gambia; Hermine Patricia Tomaino Ndam British Council, Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK Branch, Women Parliamentarians are spearheading policy change and equality. We want more women to feel empowered and supported Njoya, MP, Cameroon; Rt Hon. Maria Miller, MP, Chair of the Women Westminster Foundation for Democracy and Wilton Park. through this conference were able to shine a spotlight on four policy to enter politics and drive change nationally and internationally. areas that affect the lives of women and girls: promoting women’s This centenary year we are not just celebrating the achievements of economic empowerment; ending violence against women and girls; the women who came before us – we are helping women here and Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Alumni Champion begins new role championing efforts to enable all women to have access to voluntary now to tackle gender inequality around the world.” family planning; and breaking the barriers to girls’ education. Mother of the UK House of Commons*, Rt Hon. Harriet In accordance with the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Strategy, the CWP Alumni Initiative has been launched by Community organisations and charities working for women’s Harman, MP said: “Women have fought their way into nearly every the CPA Headquarters Secretariat with the objective of providing a framework for former women Parliamentarians to deliver mentoring, rights were invited into the public gallery at the UK Parliament to Parliament in the world. But it’s not enough for us just to be there, coaching and advice to the benefit of sitting women Parliamentarians and to act as a resource for the CPA. watch the debates. we want to exercise power on equal terms with men in Parliament. Dr Lesley Clark, a former Member of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland in Australia has been nominated to the position of CWP As only relatively recent arrivals, women MPs are still pioneers in Alumni Champion and she will act as an Ambassador for the CWP Alumni Initiative and will share her experience and expertise across male-dominated Parliaments. At this historic conference, we have the CPA and CWP’s membership. Dr Lesley Clark was Member of Parliament been able to get together to share our experiences, our successes from 1989 to 1995 and again from 1998 to 2006. Like many Members of and setbacks. We have determined to fight yet harder to get Parliament, she was involved with local politics before entering Parliament, equality for women in our countries. We have made links, so we serving as a member of the Mulgrave Shire Council. During her parliamentary can work together in the future. We have strengthened our resolve career, she held many positions and served on numerous Parliamentary to fight the backlash against women in public life and to get yet Committees, giving her a wealth of experience. Since retiring from Parliament, more women into Parliaments. Our countries are very different she has held the position of the Director of Equity and Diversity at James but as women Parliamentarians, our goals are the same. We want Cook University in Queensland and now works as a consultant in international equality for women and nothing less. The sisterhood is global.” development to increase women’s parliamentary representation. The UK Prime Minister, Rt Hon. Theresa May, MP held a reception Please turn to page 56 to read about the work of the CWP Alumni Champion. for the international delegates to the Women MPs of the World To contact the CWP Alumni Champion please email [email protected].

COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARIANS AT 67th WESTMINSTER SEMINAR DISCUSS HOW TO

CREATE EFFECTIVE PARLIAMENTS Image credits: CPA UK Branch images.

Over the last year as Chair of the Gambia, Canada, Seychelles and Commonwealth Parliamentary Pakistan. To have representatives Association UK Executive from over 30 countries together Committee, I have enjoyed for a whole week provides a rich meeting and hosting delegations opportunity for all. Many new of Parliamentarians and clerks friendships and networks grew from around the Commonwealth out of the week. who have visited the UK The first three days of the Parliament. It is always a pleasure Westminster Seminar were to meet my Commonwealth tailored to meet the working counterparts and I always learn needs of Parliamentarians and Hon. James something from our time together. clerks, including sessions on Rt Hon. Andrea Duddridge, MP Last November, we had communications, legislation and Leadsom, MP, is the Chair of the the pleasure of hosting Committees. My opening session the further spread of HIV and It has innovative ideas and the issues, including pressures on For more information about the next over 70 Commonwealth with my colleague, Rt Hon. David Leader of the UK AIDS. In the week before World Senedd youth parliament and local housing. Westminster Seminar, please visit the Commonwealth Parliamentarians and clerks at Hanson, MP was entitled ‘The House of Commons Aids Day, this session focussed education outreach programme After saying farewell to all CPA UK website www.uk-cpa.org. th th Parliamentary the 67 Westminster Seminar, Political Scene in Westminster’. summed up the all minds on the implications of served as a good reminder that the delegates, it struck me The 67 Westminster Seminar took Association UK Branch a five day programme of Unsurprisingly, Brexit occupied leaving minority groups behind. Parliaments should not limit how much information and place at the UK Parliament organised (CPA UK). Since 2005, workshops in the UK Parliament much of the discussion. It was Westminster The fourth day was spent themselves to legislation and knowledge had been shared by the Commonwealth Parliamentary organised by the Commonwealth useful to reflect upon responses Seminar when she at the National Assembly scrutiny. during the course of the week, Association UK Branch from 26th-30th he has been the MP for Parliamentary Association from delegates, as well as sharing for Wales with our hosts, the On the final day of the and how much more we all still November 2018. Rochford & Southend UK Branch. The theme of the our own different viewpoints. commented: Commonwealth Parliamentary programme, delegates joined have to learn about harnessing East. Before politics, he Westminster Seminar was The Commonwealth “The countries of Association Wales Branch, up with UK Parliamentarians in the potential our Parliaments pursued a successful ‘Effective Parliaments’, and all Parliamentary Association UK looking at how the Senedd is their constituencies and carried have to offer. I therefore do sessions were designed to help Branch was also delighted to the Commonwealth run. The visit served as a useful out local engagements including urge you and your colleagues business career in the participants learn and share host His Excellency Festus collectively contrast to Westminster, not least visits to local councils and to think about participating in private sector and was knowledge on best practice. Mogae, former President of create a network in size and age. For those used to schools. Again, this served as a the next Westminster Seminar a banker with Barclays I was struck by the Botswana and His Excellency working in older buildings, it was useful comparison to understand 2019 and contributing your Joaquim Chissano, former which is diverse how different authorities valuable knowledge to our both in the City of enthusiasm of all participants impressive to see the modern and the wealth of experience President of Mozambique, to talk in parliamentary design of the Senedd which organise themselves, how they Commonwealth parliamentary London and in Africa, they contributed from a wide about the importance of inclusive has been built with concern for serve their communities and how family. working in the Ivory range of countries, including The public health policy to prevent structures and rich accessibility and the environment. they work around challenging Coast and Botswana. in knowledge. He was also a founding The Westminster member of the highly Seminar brings successful national together polling firm YouGov. Parliamentarians He has held positions in government as a from across the Government Whip and Commonwealth was Foreign Office to share their Minister between 2014 experience and best and 2016. practice.”

comparisons with others. AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO THE CPA FUNDAMENTALS Online learning is enhanced by four end-of-module tests plus posting essays with online PROGRAMME FOR CPA SMALL BRANCHES discussions for all students that enable each topic to be explored in more depth. Only time pressure and parliamentary duties prevents this from being as active a forum as it might be. The residential week at McGill University was a privilege and an Once upon a thousand years role and all aspects of the House Parliament inaugurated on 15 eye-opening collision of historic ago, a Parliament was born. practice and procedure for Chairs’. June 2005. Participants hear tradition and evolving modernity. Marauding Vikings vanquished No such comprehensive directly from Members, frequently Additionally, it enabled for many the Manx people in the tenth guidance notes were available two per Parliament, usually on of us a first visit to Québec’s century and bequeathed a on election for the new Members opposing sides of political and biggest city in an historic week parliamentary system that on the CPA Fundamentals/ party divides. when cannabis was legalized still endures today, with some McGill University class of Study on the CPA (although none of us, to my Capital Territory (represented by to recommendations before engagements in his retirement! modernizing over recent 2018! Some received informal Fundamentals Programme knowledge, bothered queuing Members, Michael Pettersson, MLA tabling the reports directly to the His talk included such pearls of centuries by its native Celts and mentoring following their election on Practice and Procedure around the block to sample the and Elizabeth Lee, MLA) boasting Legislative Assembly. Recent wisdom as: ‘Be ethical and honest later English influences. or appointment; many studied commenced online in the summer newly legal product). Mostly it was now the first female majority report subjects ranged from all the time.’ ‘Politics is a marathon Located geographically at the the formal Standing Orders that of 2018 with an introduction to an opportunity in an exceptionally Parliament in Australia and the Climate Change in 2017, to not a sprint.’ ‘To thine own self Hon. Daphne centre of the British Isles but for govern parliamentary processes, the principles of Commonwealth mild week in early Fall to enjoy first female head of government Correction (prison segregation) be true.’ And the basic tenet to Caine, MHK is a many years a self-governing Crown while others reported battling Parliamentary Governance. We meeting Commonwealth there too. Jeff Collins, MLA from in 2015. Sometimes work ensure re-election: ‘The absence former Isle of Man Dependency, the Isle of Man boasts against the establishment, a progressed through Contemporary Parliamentarians from across the Australia’s Northern Territory also would commence in response of screw-ups; better a missed journalist and served in autonomy over its law-making and lack of structure and weak Issues in Parliamentary globe, plus a little sightseeing, revealed exceptional diversity with to specific requests from the opportunity than a screw-up!’ revenue raising that many a new accountability of the Executive Governance to Advanced with our forays around Montréal 12 out of 25 women in Parliament, Legislative Assembly. Another highlight was a various roles within the Parliament would envy. or a lack of impartiality by a Parliamentary Governance at brightened by the public art five from indigenous communities. Mr Wheeler’s concluding session by the equally charismatic Isle of Man Civil Service But how well is it functioning Presiding Officer. I hope I won’t McGill University’s School for adorning every road and square in One Member revealed how comments resonated with me: ‘We Kathleen Sears on political for 20 years until her as a modern Parliament? That break any Chatham House rules Continuing Studies on Sherbrooke the streets adjacent to the McGill the first Prime Minister of their can’t force departments to make leadership. This was one of the election to the House of is the crucial question examined by reporting the following from Street, Montréal as part of the University campus. 40 years old Parliament was in change. To some extent we rely on most impactful sessions for me by participating in the CPA the Members’ presentations, residential week of the course. We While most participants were office for 30 years. Another from media and the professionalism of – encouraging self-awareness to Keys in September 2016. Fundamentals Programme: analysing the merits and demerits have now commenced the final newly elected Members, a few a South Pacific island highlighted departments to make change, and understand individual strengths how good are we, and how do of their assemblies. ‘strategic pillar’ on Parliamentary were in a governing party and issues in a Parliament dominated we rely on goodwill and a robust and weaknesses and how to we compare with others in the Alongside the Isle of Man’s Communications. amongst the cohort was a Madam by 47 out of 50 Members from democratic system.’ improve. Political skills, she Commonwealth? 1,000 years of tradition, the Lecturer Dr John K Speaker, the first woman in one of the ruling party, where three Through the residential week, advised, means utilising legitimate No matter how thoroughly course brought together a Johnson leads the various the participating small jurisdictions. members of the opposition serve we continued to study all those means to influence a course of you may feel you understand panoply of Commonwealth modules enabling Members But she reported ‘token lip service’ on two scrutiny Committees each. aspects that make up a robust action; advancing ideas by saying the workings of a parliamentary colleagues from such diverse to better understand factors was given to women in her Effective scrutiny was another democratic system, with debates what’s best for the community not assembly, participating in the and distant assemblies in CPA that influence and impact on experience. Her colleague said the major area of consideration, continuing through the evenings the individual. We should search study programme through Small Branches as Tasmania, the parliamentary functions. He assembly suffered through a lack of study and debate. and even at breakfast. opportunities to create alliances, McGill University in Montréal, Falkland Islands, the Caribbean provides encouragement to resources and no research facilities One extremely pertinent One of the highlights promote exchanges and make an Canada, fosters greater insight Region and even fascinating little undertake self-assessment and or meeting spaces – not because of lecture was delivered by was a fascinating lunch impact, always remembering that and enables an appreciation of Bougainville. Geographically part analysis of one’s own Parliament, poverty but because ‘the Executive Glenn Wheeler from the with the Canadian MP for what you do speaks louder than the value of good governance of Solomon Islands but politically to determine the strengths controls the Legislature’. Office of the Auditor General Hamilton Centre, Hon. David what you say. along with the need to part of Papua New Guinea, and weaknesses in terms of A major theme of our studies (OAG) in Canada’s Northwest Christopherson, MP of the New The skill of a politician, balance Executive power with Bougainville has a post-conflict structures and processes plus was to consider how the balance Territories, an area larger than Democratic Party, who left school (reinforced by both speakers parliamentary scrutiny. of power should be maintained, England, France and Belgium at 15 and started in politics separately) is to retain credibility. In a recent article (The and the level of compliance each combined, with a population of at age 22 after discovering ‘a The best politician should use Parliamentarian 2018/Volume jurisdiction has with the CPA’s 43,000 people spread over 33 knack for talking’. Several of my persuasion, think on your feet but 99/Issue 3) Hon. Tony Smith MP, Recommended Benchmarks communities. The role of the fellow students taped his whole always demonstrate integrity. Speaker of the Australian House for Democratic Legislatures. OAG of Canada, he explained, ‘off-the-cuff’ presentation. So We were welcomed and of Representatives explained how, There was also much discussion was to undertake financial audits much experience, eloquence gently supported throughout the ‘on appointment to the Speaker’s over female representation in and performance audits. Reports and frank advice from someone week by Dr Rick Stapenhurst, the panel, each Member is issued Parliaments, which threw up some are discussed with departments towards the end of his very experienced Parliamentary with guidance notes which offer interesting comparisons between to get agreement on facts parliamentary career, who will Programs Coordinator at McGill guidance on the history of the small islands and the Australian and departments’ responses surely be in demand for speaking University. He facilitated the

72 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue One | 100th year of publishing The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue One | 100th year of publishing | 73 AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO THE CPA FUNDAMENTALS PROGRAMME CANADA FOR CPA SMALL BRANCHES Parliamentary staunchly plurality-majoritarian University enabled each of us to our system of election is, how identify and share the top three quickly perception can veer from things we would take home and us upholding an arena-type recommend to our Parliament. legislature to allegations of a While these centre on the CPA Report rubber-stamp Parliament. Equally, Benchmarks, it also throws into how delicately power is balanced sharp relief the absence of any NEWS AND LEGISLATION FROM COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTS between Executive government, women in the Isle of Man Council Parliament and its administration. of Ministers, which I feel would be The constant striving for greater addressed if more experienced equality and better representation women Members are returned of women in Parliament is an next time at the ballot box; but interesting factor that came up other structural issues have also for consideration on numerous been highlighted by the course THIRD READINGS occasions. While the Isle of Man and its various modules. has the proud boast of being first The Lord Lisvane Review in the world to give (some) women of the Functioning of the Isle Sri Lanka Member presentations with participants to unpick what the vote in 1881, the number of of Man Parliament exposed Page 76 Paul Belisle, a former Clerk makes Parliaments tick and stitch female representatives remains some criticisms that continue to to the Parliament of Canada, our own back together, with the low, compared with many in the resound with the Manx public British Columbia plus the evaluation round-up insight to suggest improvements Commonwealth. The current as unresolved: for instance, the sessions at the close. Dr Rick to the design where necessary. House of Keys has five elected lack of an appointed Auditor- Page 79 (it’s quite informal) also provided Equipping Members with the female Members, while five more General, and the number of information on the Administration time and technical knowledge women have been elected to the Members from upper and lower Australia Federal and Financing of Parliament and to be better informed about eight seats in the upper chamber, chambers taking a role in the Page 83 with Dr Johnson led us though parliamentary systems is very making Tynwald overall 31% government. These and other the core functions: looking at empowering; it is necessary to female, the highest proportion in its management issues will be how to enhance the democracy understand the systems and the long history. Recent appointments my focus in the near future, United Kingdom of our Parliaments and make possibilities to be able to work to the Legislative Council saw armed with the political science Page 85 them better for our citizens, effectively. Democracy needs us to the Island leap from 178th place learnings of my year on the guarding against the common admit shortcomings in the system on the Inter-Parliamentary Union CPA Fundamentals Programme issue of the encroachment of where they exist and seek to make comparison table in 2016 to 44th with McGill University, which is New Zealand the Executive on parliamentary improvements where necessary. place now – just below the United thoroughly recommended for Page 88 power. Consideration of core On the Isle of Man, residents are Kingdom. But what caused the any Parliamentarians who are functions progressed later in the frequently publicly critical of our improvement and how it can interested in living, breathing week with Oversight (Dr Rick) Parliament but we don’t suffer be built on in future elections is and improving their own India and Committees and Executive outside criticism gladly. The best something for future analysis and parliamentary structure. Page 92 Scrutiny plus the Role of Parties scrutiny comes from Members report. It is likely the re-drawing I commented to one of the from Kevin Deveaux. There was from across the political spectrum of constituency boundaries prior tutors that I was turning into plenty more including Codes of self-analysing and working to the 2016 General Election, a parliamentary process nerd. Conduct and Legislation, the collaboratively to improve the forming 12 equal constituencies His response: ‘We need more Role of Back Benchers, etc. A structures that in turn will lead to consisting of two seats each, parliamentary process nerds.’ participant from the previous better functioning of the assembly. prompted more women to put year, former Jersey Deputy of Parliamentary performance their name forward. It has been For more information and how to St Brelade, Murray Norton, even is improved by fully appreciating established that the number of apply for the CPA Fundamentals joined us by video link to comment internal and external pressures, women elected (five) was directly Programme on Practice and on the perils and pressures on the role of media, the art of in proportion to the number who Procedure for Commonwealth With thanks to our Parliamentary Parliamentarians please Australia Federal Government loses vote on politicians of social media. communication and the need for stood, so the focus in future Report and Third Reading I could go into details of more transparency in good governance. must be on more credible female visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/ contributors: Stephen Boyd Page 82 of our lectures – but perhaps The course provides candidates coming forward. cpafundamentals or email (Federal Parliament of Australia); substantial legislation: first in almost 80 years better to recommend signing technical information on all The rise of party activity is also [email protected]. There are Ravindra Garimella (Parliament of up for the course for those these subjects plus opens up something likely to have an impact two Programmes available India); Dr Jayadev Sahu (Parliament of India); Erin Virgint (Federal – one for all Commonwealth interested. Participation in the a wealth of academic study on the next election in 2021. Parliament of Canada); Luke Harris CPA Fundamentals Programme and reading for ongoing And in concluding the CPA Parliamentarians (with the (Parliament of New Zealand); Karen CANADA UNITED KINGDOM INDIA delivers what it promises – it study. While appreciating Fundamentals Programme, University of Witwatersrand, South Riarh (British Columbia Legislative provides a well-supported the Isle of Man’s unique tri- what parliamentary issues Africa) and one for Members from Assembly); Neil Iddawala Building closures and ‘Brexit’ dominates UK Quota in Employment and learning space with excellent cameral system of Parliament, remain? The final session of CPA Small Branches (with McGill (Parliament of Sri Lanka) and legislative news Parliamentary Legislation Education debated in India Michael Berry (Parliament of the University, Canada). study materials, to enable I was previously unaware how the residential week at McGill United Kingdom). Page 80 Page 86 Page 90

in 2015 (Resolution 30/1). He also stated that it is He stated that Sri Lanka considers states with bribery or corrupt practices etc, and he Recovery of Damages for the Death of THIRD READING: SRI LANKA not necessary to bring this Bill as the United States that have imperial powers as ‘the international’; appreciated the Minister for her initiatives to a Person of America has left the United Nations, which these countries try to influence ‘weaker’ enact laws in order to uphold the Rule of Law The Recovery of Damages for the Death of Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters provisions to investigate crimes related to brought the Resolution 30/1 to United Nations. countries in order to interfere in their economic in the country. He also stated that it is essential a Person Bill was debated and approved by (Amendment) Act No. 24 of 2018 computer system and data and to obtain He further stated that this Bill makes and political sovereignty while safeguarding to work with foreign countries and international Parliament on 10 January 2019. It became the The Bill was introduced in the Sri Lanka international assistance to collect electronic provisions for any country and any international their perpetrators. organisations to punish the wrongdoers. law of the country with effect from 17 January Parliament on 5 June 2018 by the Minister evidence to conduct court proceeding regarding organisations to ask for an accused to give He pointed out that the USA has signed Hon. (Mrs) Thalatha Atukorale, Minister 2019. This Bill was published in The Gazette on of Justice and Prison Reforms. The Bill was criminal matters; Section 2 expands the evidence for a crime. It is not only confined for international agreements to safeguard their citizens of Justice and Prison Reforms, wound up the 3 September 2018 and introduced in the Sri challenged in the Supreme Court under Article possibility of exchanging assistance in criminal corruption but also other criminal activities and who commit crimes or wrongdoing in a foreign debate and stated that with globalization, new Lanka Parliament on 9 October 2018. 121 of the Constitution and amendments matters with foreign countries and international any person of this country including security country, so that they can only be tried at the USA’s crimes have been identified and this legislation There are no direct provisions under the recommended by the Supreme Court were organisations, and it is also possible to have forces, who is accused of committing any courts. He added that Sri Lanka has laws to deal is introduced to amend the principal enactment Roman Dutch Law for the recovery of damages introduced and adopted by Parliament at the direct agreements with countries to exchange crimes can be handed over to another country, with corruption and military crimes and the issue in order to cover all those new crimes and to for the mental pain and suffering where a person Committee Stage level. assistance in criminal matters if a country is not if such a country asks for such a person as a is that of letting other countries probe into and facilitate mutual assistance. She also stated dies because of negligence or carelessness of International mutual assistance in criminal a party to an international convention. witness. He stated that they have no objection influence our military and economic matters. that the following new objects are included in a third party. This Bill seeks to provide for the matters has become very important to combat Hon. (Mrs) Shanthi Sriskandarasa, MP, to hand over thieves, but this Bill paves the way He accused the government of being Section 3 of this Act in order to facilitate the recovery of damages pertaining to the death of transnational crime and Sri Lanka had enacted appreciated for bringing the Bill to amend the to victimize the war heroes of the country and subservient to imperialists and stated that provision and to obtain assistance in criminal a person caused by a wrongful act, omission, a legislation in this regard in 2002. The main Criminal Matters with the objective of combat has an adverse impact on the security of the therefore his party (JVP) oppose the Bill; and related matters, including: negligence or default of another person and for objective of this legislation is to improve corruption and bribery in the country. She stated country and therefore he opposed this Bill. however, he stated that corrupted people of this • the tracing of crimes committed via the other matters connected thereto. The provisions effectiveness of investigation, prosecution and it is very much important to bring legislation to Hon. Anura Priyadharshana Yapa, MP, country should not be safeguarded in the name Internet, information communications of this Act will be in addition to and not in prevention of crime and the confiscation of criminal cope up with the crimes that are connected with described the Bill as a bitter medicine coated of saving the country from imperialists’ agenda. technology, cloud computing, block chain derogation of any other right or remedy provided proceeds. In this Bill, there are provisions for modern technology. However, she expressed with chocolate and stated that this Bill not Hon. Vasudeva Nanayakkara, MP stated technology and other computer networks by any other written or unwritten law. international co-operation and mutual assistance her doubts about implementation of law exclusively applies to bribery and corruption. He that he would extend his fullest co-operation to including the trading of any digital currencies; In this Bill, there are provisions for the Courts to the widest extent possible for the purpose of and order without any discrimination to the questioned whether any other South Asian or this Bill if it intends to eradicate corruption and • bribery of any foreign public official or official to seek assistance from experts to determine investigations or proceedings concerning criminal entire country and stressed the necessity of a SAARC country presented such Bill with regard to punish those who are involved in corruption, of a public international organisation and whether an applicant for the damages suffered offence related to cybercrimes. mechanism to observe the implementation of to Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters. but it is not so. He further stated that the their respective proxies and beneficiaries; from mental pain and suffering due to the death, It also has provisions for the collection laws and rules properly. He further added that this Bill has been Minster said that we only give information and • expedited preservation of stored computer the loss of the love and affection, and care of evidence in electronic form in respect of She stated that some people in the North brought for the interest of imperialists, as they no extradition, but when the provisions of this data and expedited disclosure and companionship of the deceased, before computer crimes and criminal offence from and East have been engaged in illegal acts want to weaken the countries, which talk about Bill read together with the Extradition Act and • of preserved traffic data and data retention; awarding damages. Further, the Bill prohibits other countries and international organisations such as liquor production, sand mining, fishing, their identity and independence. He pointed out Office for Missing Persons Act, the request for • location of proceeds of a criminal activity; a person to claim damages if the person has through direct agreements if a country or and smuggling of timber etc, with the blessings the plight of the former Yugoslavian President, extradition may come. • use of documentary evidence obtained abandoned the deceased person. organisation is not a party to the relevant of higher authorities and questioned as to why Milosevic, who had been handed over with the He also stated, if a citizen of this country in a specified country through specific The Minister of Justice and Prison Reforms, international or regional conventions. the government failed to take action on such charges of war crimes against humanity in the commits a crime in a foreign country, we may authorization to be made admissible in a Hon. (Mrs) Thalatha Athukorala, MP, outlined The Second Reading took place on 7 and 9 acts. She also expressed her doubt whether international arena but died in the process. He help that country to conduct investigation but if judicial proceeding; and the objectives of the Bill and said that every August 2018. Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister the Judiciary would punish true culprits, even if further stated that in Spain, some magistrates any of our citizens commit any crimes within the • admissibility and applicability of evidence person has to recognise the value of the life of Public Enterprise and Kandy City Development corporal punishment was implemented for those have the power to issue warrants to arrest country we can conduct inquiries and punish led from a specified country through video of the other person. She said it is important to and Leader of the House of Parliament moved who engaged in drug smuggling, and requested persons in any country and the President of them and should not allow foreign countries to conferencing technology. create a crime free environment and to respect the motion for the Second Reading of the Bill. the Government to implement the laws Chile was arrested in England by a warrant interfere in our internal matters. The Bill was passed on 9 August 2018 family values and the sentiments of others, as Hon. Ajith P. Perera, State Minister of Power effectively and efficiently to the entire country. issued by a Spanish Magistrate. This Bill may Hon. A. Aravindh Kumar, MP, stated that and the Act came into force from 15 August we all believe in strong family ties. and Renewable Energy, stated that it is important Hon. Chandima Gamage, MP, stated that facilitate such incidents and a judge in another this Bill has been brought with the intention 2018 from the date on which the Hon. Speaker She stated that there are provisions in the to update the principal enactment in keeping with the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act country could issue a warrant against a person of punishing the culprits who were involved endorsed his certificate on the Bill. Roman Dutch Law to claim compensation for the new challenges faced in the areas of terrorism, was enacted in 2002 and had been confined to in our country. bribery, financial crimes, money laundering etc. a few countries. This legislation has provisions He also stated that we already have a He further stated that due to the technological to work mutually with any country in the world in set of laws for bribery and corruption in our advancement, banking, terrorism and other order to bring thieves, corrupts, murderers and country and this Bill may bring unexpected activities do not confine to a single country and it is all kinds of criminals to book through judiciary. consequences, such as to build up cases essential to have co-operation with other countries He also stated that there are provisions to use against those people who strived to win the war to conduct investigations and obtain witnesses with video and audio transmission technology to and requested to be cautious on these matters. regard to crimes and corruption. lead evidence when a witness lives in a foreign Hon. Bimal Rathnayake, MP, stated He stated that the study on money laundering country and unable to appear before courts in that mutual assistance in criminal matters is conducted by the Asia Pacific group also has Sri Lanka. necessary to have international cooperation to stressed out that our laws have to be updated and Hon. Wimal Weerawansa, MP, stated that combat crimes such as human, gold and drug that this legislation intends to update municipal though the Bill is described by the Government trafficking that are very common in Sri Lanka. laws in line with the international conventions Members, as a Bill that intends to eradicate It is common to exchange criminals between in order to make provisions for combating corruption in the country, but it is not so and has countries and one of the drug dealers of Sri transnational crimes, prevention of crimes and some other objectives. The amendments are Lanka was arrested in connection with drug strengthening internal investigation. derived from agreements that Sri Lanka had with trafficking in Pakistan, and in that aspect, this The Minister stated that the Bill has the Commonwealth in the past and with the USA kind of legislation is important.

THIRD READING: SRI LANKA THIRD READING: BRITISH COLUMBIA a person’s death; but no provisions to claim negligence or carelessness of another person responsible for such death. This Bill contains compensation for the mental stress and trauma or party has been extended to other members progressive provisions to fill the gap in the law caused by the death of a loved one, even when of the family, also based on the strong family and now we can institute legal action to claim the death occurred as a result of negligence of values of our country. For example, if an adult damages for the wrongful act or negligence of a someone. child died due to negligence, then the parents of person, which cause death of another person. The Minister stated that the special feature such child deprived of the protection and other However, the Member pointed out that there of the Bill is that a parent or parents, a child or financial support. Therefore, the Minister has is a drawback in this law as the heirs, executors children, a sibling or siblings, a grandparent or taken proper steps to make provisions for all the or administrators of the applicant cannot grandparents or guardians jointly will be able parties who affected by the death of a person proceed the case if the applicant died. This to claim damages for the loss of love, affection, to claim damages, if such death occurred due lacuna may cause adverse effect, as there is a care and companionship and the mental to negligence or carelessness of a third party. possibility to eliminate the applicant to proceed suffering they have to endure, from any person The Minister concluded his speech by stating with the legal action by kidnapping or killing the whose wrongful act, omission, or negligence that this Act is a very important and progressive person. The Member requested that the Minister caused a death of their loved one. piece of legislation of this country. of Justice bring an amendment to enable the The Minister pointed out if an applicant dies Hon. Susantha Punchinilame, MP, heirs to continue the legal proceeding when before a damage claim is made or a judgement appreciated bringing this piece of legislation that the applicant of such claim dies before the on damages is delivered, heirs, executors or has provisions to claim damages for the death judgement is delivered. administrators of the deceased applicant will of a person from the person whose negligence Hon. Hector Appuhamy, MP stated that Budget Measures Implementation Budget Measures Implementation Human Rights Code Amendment Act, have no right to claim damages. or wrongful act is the cause of such death. He the Bill is very special to our country as our (Employer Health Tax) Act, 2018 (Speculation and Vacancy Tax) Act, 2018 2018 Hon. Chandrasiri Gajadeera, MP, stated stated it would be appreciated if provisions can people give priority to family and family values. Bill 44, Budget Measures Implementation On 22 November 2018, Budget Measures Bill 50 amends the Human Rights Code to that it is detrimental for not allowing the heirs, also be introduced to claim damages for the This Bill make provisions to claim damages from (Employer Health Tax) Act, 2018, enacts a new, Implementation (Speculation and Vacancy establish a Human Rights Commissioner as executors or administrators to proceed with persons who live with the support of medical the person who is responsible for the death of annual tax on employers with payrolls above Tax) Act, 2018 received Third Reading. The a new statutory officer. The Commissioner the legal action if the deceased applicant died devices for basic activities of daily living, due to a person who lived in the family very closely. He $500,000 with rates phased in for payrolls up Bill enacts a speculation and vacancy tax on is responsible for protecting and promoting before a judgement is delivered. He requested wrongful act or negligence of another party. stated that he would like to highlight, not the to $1.5 million, effective 1 January 2019. The residential property in core urban areas of human rights and addressing discrimination the Minister to make appropriate provisions for Hon. Douglas Devananda, MP, pointed possibility of claiming damages after the death Bill also outlines a specific tax treatment for British Columbia, effective the 2018 calendar by identifying and promoting elimination of the living heirs to continue with the legal action out that there are no provisions in the Bill for of a person, but for claiming damages for the charitable and non-profit employers. year, based on assessed value and ownership, discriminatory practices, delivering public to claim damages. a spouse to maintain an action for damages loss of love and grief of a living person due to During the Second Reading debate, Hon. with foreign owners subject to a higher tax rate. information and education about human rights, Hon. Ajith P. Perera, MP, Minister of Digital against the person whose wrongful act or the death of the beloved one. Carole James, Minister of Finance, explained that The Bill provides for a number of exemptions, intervening in complaints, and initiating inquiries Infrastructure and Information Technology, said negligence caused the death of the other At the conclusion of the debate, the Minister the tax will partially replace revenue from medical including for a principal residence and for into matters related to human rights. we follow the Roman Dutch law and there are spouse. of Justice and Prison Reforms, Hon. (Mrs) services premiums, which were reduced in 2019 homes that are rented out for at least six months During the Second Reading debate, the provisions under the Roman Dutch law to claim Hon. Vijitha Herath, MP, appreciated for Thalatha Athukorala, thanked all the Members and will be eliminated in 2020. She described per year. Attorney General, Hon. David Eby, stated damages for the death of a person caused by a introducing this Bill and said it has become for their valuable contribution to the debate. medical services premiums as regressive During the Second Reading debate, Hon. that public consultation informed the Bill, wrongful act, omission, negligence or default of one of the serious issues that people die due She also stated that taking into consideration and costly to administer, and noted that other Carole James, Minister of Finance, described emphasizing a consensus on the need for an another. He stated that lot of debates took place to a wrongful act or negligence of another, of the suggestion made by Hon. Douglas jurisdictions in Canada similarly use a payroll tax. the tax as a measure to improve access to independent office, and noted that the province in respect of claiming damages for the death of especially in the medical field; there was no Devananda, MP, an amendment would be Shirley Bond, MLA and Official Opposition housing and housing affordability by acting as has been without a human rights commission a person from the person whose wrongful act or appropriate legal provisions to claim damages incorporated to the Bill to make provision for the Critic for Finance, agreed on the need to eliminate an incentive for home owners to add vacant since 2002. He also advised that the legislation negligence is the cause of such death, after the from the people or organisation, who is spouse to claim damages. medical services premiums; however, she homes to the rental market or to sell homes. did not change the mandate of the BC Human determination of the Rienzi Arsecularatne vs. Prof. expressed concerns about the impact of a payroll The Official Opposition Critic for Finance, Rights Tribunal, which will continue to directly Priyani Soysa case. In this case, the right of the tax on businesses, consumers and municipalities. Shirley Bond, MLA, questioned the design of the accept discrimination complaints. parent to claim damages in respect of the child’s She particularly had questions about the use tax, including how taxable areas were determined Michael Lee, MLA and Official Opposition death that occurred due to medical negligence of only a payroll tax to replace medical services and whether it effectively targets speculators, Critic for Attorney General, supported the Bill, was discussed. The Supreme Court determined premiums, instead of a combination of personal and outlined concerns about how many British and reflected on the evolution of human rights in that as per the prevailing law of the country there income and payroll taxes, as well as the 2019 Columbians may be subject to the tax. the province; he also sought clarity with respect is no provision to claim damages for a death that transition year when reduced premiums and the The Leader of the Third Party, Andrew to the Commissioner’s inquiry powers and the caused due to professional negligence. employer health tax will apply. Weaver, MLA, discussed the application of the ability of the Commissioner to intervene in Our country has strong family values, people Andrew Weaver, MLA and Leader of the tax and proposed three amendments which certain proceedings. are family oriented and the family depend on Third Party, similarly expressed support for the were supported by government and adopted: The Leader of the Third Party, Andrew each other. This determination paved way to elimination of the medical services premiums that the Minister conduct an annual consultation Weaver, MLA, also expressed his support for find a way to come out from the Roman Dutch and outlined an alternative approach that with mayors in the taxable areas to review the the Bill, discussing the need to examine and law in order to make provisions for a parent would have included an element of personal tax; that revenue be designated for affordable address human rights issues proactively. to claim damages when a child died due to responsibility based on ability to pay. housing initiatives in the taxable areas; and a The Human Rights Code Amendment Act, wrongful act or negligence of another person. The Budget Measures Implementation reduction in the tax rate for one group of owners 2018 unanimously received Third Reading on The proposal to make provisions for a parent to (Employer Health Tax) Act, 2018 received Third - Canadian non-residents of British Columbia. 22 November 2018. claim damages when a child dies as a result of Reading on 6 November 2018.

CANADA FEDERAL: WINTER LEGISLATIVE NEWS Closure of Centre Block elections, introduces a ‘pre- • Bill C-21, An Act to Amend and to make consequential In January 2019, the Centre writ’ period with spending the Customs Act, which amendments to another Block, which housed the limits and disclosure authorizes Canada Border Act, which, among Senate of Canada and the rules for political parties, Services Agency to collect other changes, amends House of Commons for increases the amount of biographic information on provisions in the Code nearly a century, closed for child care expenses during all travelers – including relating to sexual offences. the largest, most complex a campaign for which Canadian citizens – as they Specifically, it sets out a heritage rehabilitation project qualifying candidates can leave Canada. The Act also procedure for determining ever undertaken in Canada. be reimbursed from 60% to permits for the exchange the admissibility and use of The Senate and the House of 90%, caps the length of an of biographic data between the complainant’s records Commons have moved to new election period at 50 days or Canada and the United when they are in the temporary chambers within the less, allows at-home voting States on travelers at all possession of the accused. parliamentary precinct until the for people with disabilities, land ports of entry, including Furthermore, Hon. Jean- renovation project is complete and allows Canadian Canadian and U.S. citizens. Yves Duclos, MP, Minister of in approximately a decade. The citizens permanently living • Bill C-47, An Act to amend Families, Children and Social Centre Block was built between abroad to vote the Export and Import Development introduced 1916 and 1927, after the original • Bill C-89, Postal Services Permits Act and the Criminal C-87, the Poverty Reduction building, with the exception of Resumption and Code (amendments Act. C-87 sets out poverty the Library, burnt down in 1916. Continuation Act, which, permitting the accession reduction targets for Canada and in light of rotating Canada to the Arms Trade Treaty establishes the National Advisory Legislation Post strikes, provided and other amendments) Council on Poverty. Before Parliament adjourned for the resumption and which makes the necessary in December 2018, several continuation of postal changes to Canada’s export Committee reports government Bills received Royal services and imposed and import control regime A number of reports were Assent, including: a mediation process to that will allow Canada to join presented in the House of • Bill C-76, the Elections resolve matters remaining the United Nations Arms Commons, including: Changes in the Senate and girls, to fill a vacancy in Attorney General of Canada, from the Conservative Party Modernization Act, which, in dispute between Canada Trade Treaty. • Moving Forward – Towards In December 2018, the Prime Ontario. was appointed Minister of caucus and from his role as among a number of reforms, Post and the Canadian • Bill C-51, An Act to amend A Stronger Canadian Minister, Rt. Hon. Justin As of 31 January 2019, the Veterans Affairs justice critic, following reports aims to curb foreign Union of Postal Workers. the Criminal Code and the Museum Sector (Standing Trudeau, MP, announced the standings in the Senate were: • Hon. David Lametti, MP, that he had shared sexually interference in Canadian Department of Justice Act Committee on Canadian appointment of seven Senators Independent Senators Group former Parliamentary explicit images of himself online. Heritage); based on the advice of the 54, Conservative Party 31, Liberal Secretary to the Minister On 1 December 2018, Raj • Democracy under Threat: Independent Advisory Board on Party 9 and non-affiliated 11. of Innovation, Science and Grewal, MP, left the Liberal Party Risks and Solutions in the Senate Appointments. The new Currently, 49 of 105 Senators are Economic Development, caucus following allegations of a Era of Disinformation and independent Senators are: women (47%). was appointed Minister of severe gambling addiction. Data Monopoly (Standing • Hon. Margaret Dawn Justice and Attorney General On 29 January 2019, Nicola Committee on Access to Anderson, a proud Inuvialuk Changes in the House of of Canada. Di Iorio, MP announced his Information, Privacy and and long-serving public Commons • Hon. Bernadette Jordan, resignation after several months Ethics) servant for the Northwest On 14 January 2019, Prime MP, former Parliamentary of absences from the House of • Moving Forward in the Fight Territories Government, to Minister Trudeau announced Secretary to the Minister of Commons. Against Human Trafficking fill a vacancy in Northwest changes to the Ministry and Democratic Institutions, was in Canada (Standing Territories. welcomed several new Members appointed Minister of Rural Apology in the House of Committee on Justice and • Hon. Pat Duncan, former to Cabinet: Economic Development Commons Human Rights) Premier of Yukon and long- • Hon. Jane Philpott, Hon. Scott Brison, MP, On 7 November 2018, the Prime • Responding to Russian serving public servant and MP, former Minister of resigned from his position Minister, Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Aggression Against businesswoman, to fill a Indigenous Services, was as President of the Treasury MP, delivered a formal apology Ukraine, Moldova and vacancy in Yukon appointed President of the Board and Minister of Digital in the House of Commons to Georgia in the Black • Hon. Stanley Kutcher, Treasury Board and Minister Government and announced that the Jewish refugees who were Sea Region (Standing expert on adolescent of Digital Government he will not seek re-election in the aboard the MS St. Louis in 1939. Committee on National mental health and leader in • Hon. Seamus O’Regan, 2019 general election. After being denied entry into Defence) mental health research and MP, former Minister of On 17 January 2019, former Canada due to strict immigration • Protection and Recovery of advocacy, to fill a vacancy in Veterans Affairs, was Québec provincial Minister, Yves- policies, the ship returned to Endangered Whales: The Nova Scotia. appointed Minister of François Blanchet was chosen Europe and 254 passengers Way Forward (Standing • Hon. Rosemary Moody, Indigenous Services to be the new leader of the Bloc were murdered in the Holocaust. Committee on Fisheries former neonatologist and • Hon. Jody Wilson- Québécois. and Oceans) professor of pediatrics Raybould, MP, former On 6 November 2018, Hon. and advocate for women Minister of Justice and Tony Clement, MP, resigned

James Ashby and Senator AUSTRALIAN FEDERAL GOVERNMENT LOSES VOTE ON Burston had a physical altercation in Parliament House THIRD READING: AUSTRALIA which was captured on film and SUBSTANTIAL LEGISLATION – THE FIRST IN ALMOST 80 YEARS Defence Amendment (Call Out of the Senator Helen Polley, Australian Labor On 12 February 2019, the During a media interview, the CCTV footage. Australian Defence Force) Act, 2018 Party, advised that the Opposition supported the minority Morrison Government Prime Minister was repeatedly The President of the Senate, The legislation permits states and territories to legislation commenting that ‘we are determined reached a new low when asked that fast tracked medical Senator Hon. Scott Ryan took request the Commonwealth of Australia to call that our national security arrangements stay it lost a vote, 74-75, on key evacuations would not apply to immediate and decisive action out the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in various ahead of our security circumstances to make sure legislation dealing with the new boat arrivals, but he refused. stating that ‘the video footage circumstances. Australians stay safe and the freedoms that make medical evacuation of asylum He ramped up the issue by that I have reviewed records The Attorney-General, Hon. Christian Porter, our society what it is are protected.’ Senator Polley seekers from the detention announcing that the dormant the reported incident between MP, commented that the legislation will ‘enhance the noted that ‘these new provisions respect the States facilities on Nauru and Manus Christmas Island detention Senator Burston and Mr James ability of the ADF to support state and territory police and Territories role as first responders but gives Island. About 1,000 detainees centre would be reopened. Ashby last night. It shows to respond to domestic security incidents, including flexibility for the most rapid, effective and appropriate are on these Islands with During Question Time, the inappropriate behaviour by a and, most specifically, terrorism.’ Mr Porter noted that specialist support in responding to terrorist incidents some being in detention for Prime Minister criticised the passholder towards a Senator. ‘the threat we face today is, unfortunately, greater and to be provided by the ADF, simplifying, expanding up to five and a half years. Opposition noting that when Accordingly, I have exercised more complex than that which we faced when these and clarifying the ADF’s powers.’ The Labor Opposition and the it was in government between my authority to revoke Mr James laws were introduced almost 20 years ago.’ Senator Polley commented that ‘the Bill specifies, Crossbenchers succeeded in 2007 and 2013, there were Ashby of his pass to access I will not be making any further commented that ‘after recent Mr Porter explained that ‘Australia has a broad expands and clarifies the ADF’s existing search and amending the government’s about 800 unauthorised boat the building and prohibit him comment.’ media stories about my private continuum of operational response to terrorist seizure powers when they’re operating under a call- legislation to make it easier arrivals, resulting in 50,000 from re-entering the building for When the former Deputy life, it is clear that the people of attacks spanning from general duties police to the out order. Currently, the ADF search powers do not for medical evacuations from asylum seekers and 1,200 the time being. This does not Prime Minster, Hon. Barnaby Mallee will be best served in the specialist members of the ADF. The police and other authorise them to search for and detain people as Nauru and Manus Island. This deaths at sea. The government affect his employment, which Joyce, MP was involved in a next Parliament by a different emergency services are, and will remain, our first they focus on dangerous things. This amendment will was against the advice of would be hoping to make the is not a matter for the Presiding controversial affair with one of Nationals candidate.’ responders to such terrible events. It is the immediate permit ADF personnel to be authorised to search for security officials who argued issue of border control a major Officers.’ his staffers, Mr Broad was one of The Deputy Leader of actions of these first responders that can have the and seize items and search for and detain people that that this could encourage the issue at the upcoming election. Senator Cory Bernardi, the first National Party Members the Nationals, Senator Hon. greatest impact in terms of saving lives, protecting are likely to pose a threat to a person’s life, health or clients of people smugglers Australian Conservatives, to call for Mr Joyce to resign. Bridget McKenzie says the people and neutralising any threat.’ safety, or to public health or safety generally.’ to now attempt to travel. The Minister resigns in new sex stated ‘Mr President, I want On the very day that Mr reports on the behaviour Mr Porter noted that ‘while the ADF’s primary The legislation provides for the ADF to be pre- legislation subsequently cleared scandal to put on the record how Broad’s scandal was reported, of Mr Broad left her ‘deeply counterterrorism role is offshore, the ADF has personnel, authorised to respond to certain threats. Senator the Senate by 36 votes to 34. On 17 December 2018, the grateful I am for your expedient the government was releasing disappointed.’ resources, specialist skills and assets that can assist our Polley stated that ‘pre-authorised or contingent While this is an Assistant Minister to the Deputy investigation of this and your its mid-year economic and fiscal emergency services to respond in the event of a terrorist call-out will allow Ministers to pre-authorise the embarrassment for the Prime Prime Minister, Hon. Andrew determination to revoke the outlook which was expected Senator in altercation in attack. This support includes specialist capabilities such ADF to respond if specific circumstances arise. Minister, Hon. Scott Morrison, Broad, MP, resigned from the pass of Mr James Ashby under to showcase the government’s Parliament House as tactical assault forces, and chemical, biological, Today, contingent call-out is limited to protecting MP, he insists the government Ministry over claims that he met these circumstances. I say that economic management and Senator Brian Burston is radiological and nuclear response and recovery. For this Commonwealth interests from air threats. This type retains the ability to govern. a ‘sugar baby’ in an overseas not because I have any malice return to a budget surplus. a Crossbench Senator with reason, it is essential that the defence forces are able to of call-out has been put in place regularly to protect This means continuing with hotel. The magazine New Idea towards Mr Ashby or anyone However, all of this was the United Australia Party contribute effectively to domestic counterterrorism efforts major Commonwealth events - the G20, the ASEAN the government’s strategy of reported that Mr Broad spent else but because I think those overshadowed by the media’s and previously with Senator in every environment.’ summit and the Commonwealth Games. The Bill delivering the budget on 3 April, time in Hong Kong with a who are entrusted with a pass attention on Mr Broad. To make Pauline Hanson’s One Nation The principles underlying the call-out of ADF extends contingent call-out to be available for State where it will announce the first woman, Amy, with the online in this place, just as Senators matters worse it was revealed Party. Senator Burston has personnel to assist civilian authorities are: and Territory interests from threats in the land, air and surplus in over 12 years and alias of ‘Sweet Sophia Rose’. are entrusted with free rein that the Deputy Prime Minister, been confronted with sexual • The ADF should only be called out to assist maritime domains.’ then calling an election for It was reported that Mr Broad across Parliament House, have Hon. Michael McCormack, harassment allegations. It is civilian authorities. Senator Rex Patrick, Centre Alliance Party, some time in May. used taxpayer’s money to pay a special privilege. I think that MP, had known about the reported that he offered to have • If the ADF is called out, civilian authorities noted that while the legislation is necessary, ‘if the For the Leader of the for a domestic leg of his flights for any chief of staff or any controversy since 8 November. sex with a staff member ‘to remain paramount, but ADF members remain provisions contained in the bill are ever invoked Opposition, Hon. Bill Shorten, to reach Hong Kong. Amy staff member who accosts a When Mr McCormack was make her feel better’. Senator under military command. and the ADF is called out into Australian streets MP, the pleasure in defeating claimed that ‘he told me he was Senator in the manner in which pressed on why he did not take Burston denied the allegations • When called out, ADF members can only use in response to a terrorist threat or other domestic the government on this in Hong Kong for a conference, it was alleged, there is only one early action on the matter, he and has in turn attacked force that is reasonable and necessary in all violence, it will most likely mark an intelligence, legislation could be short but he shouldn’t have been appropriate course of action. commented that ‘Mr Broad had Senator Hanson claiming the circumstances. security and policy failure. It will mean that a situation lived if there is a new boat here at all. He kept saying that I have to say, Mr President, it told him he’d been on a date that she had twice sexually • ADF personnel remain subject to the law and has developed that is so serious that the ADF is arrival in the three months he was very important and that filled me with dread that this with a woman he met online but harassed him. Senator Pauline are accountable for their actions. needed to bring it to its successful resolution. It will before the election. Such an when he left he was going to would be referred off to another did not tell him all of the details Hanson responded that ‘I might Mr Porter concluded that ‘the measures in this Bill always be preferable that circumstances never reach event would be pounced on have to throw away his phone. Committee or an investigation about lurid text messages that be 64 but I’m not that desperate. will ensure that Defence’s specialist counterterrorism that point.’ by the government which has He referred to himself as James or somewhere else, so I want were published by New Idea These are allegations that have capabilities are readily available to States and targeted Labor as having a Bond numerous times.’ Mr to go on the record and say magazine.’ Nevertheless, Mr been made up, there are no Territories if and when they are appropriate and Intelligence Services Amendment Act, 2018 poor record with its detention Broad responded that ‘I have congratulations to you for your McCormack’s judgement and truth to them whatsoever and I needed. Significantly, the amendments will enable The legislation enables the responsible Minister policies while in government. been advised that the person prompt action. The term ‘for decision-making has been feel sorry for his wife, I really feel the ADF to respond to a threat spanning jurisdictional to specify additional persons outside Australia Mr Shorten responded that the making the allegation may have the time being’ concerns me brought into question. sorry his wife.’ borders and be pre-authorised to respond to threats who may be protected by an Australian Secret amendments only allow for engaged in criminal activity. This because, unfortunately, Mr On 18 December 2018, Mr The matters degenerated on land, at sea or in the air. This will ensure the most Intelligence Service (ASIS) staff member or agent. medical evacuation for current matter has been reported to the Ashby has quite a track record Broad announced that he would even further when Senator rapid response possible, which is critical given the In addition, the legislation provides that an ASIS staff detainees not new arrivals. Australian Federal Police and in this place. I hope that ‘time not contest the next election. He Hanson’s Chief of Staff, Mr current threat environment.’ member or agent performing specified activities being’ is a very long time.’

THIRD READING: AUSTRALIA THIRD READING: UNITED KINGDOM outside Australia will be able to use reasonable Australian public’s expectations of propriety.’ that we’ve seen passed through State, Territory Homes (fitness for human habitation) Bill UK’s withdrawal from the EU in March 2019, in the House of Commons on 15 June 2018, and necessary force in the performance of an Mr Fletcher in explaining the need for the and Commonwealth Parliaments in the last Introduced in the UK Parliament’s House of including in the event of a ‘no-deal’ departure. Sir Christopher Chope, MP (Con) stopped the ASIS function. changes stated that ‘under the current Act, an 20 years that provide greater powers to our Commons by Karen Buck, MP (Lab), this Bill was The amendment received support from a Bill progressing by shouting “object”. After the The Minister for Families and Social Services, armed ASIS officer undertaking an operation intelligence services and erode fundamental selected in the Private Members’ Ballot. At the start group of cross-party Select Committee chairs, scheduled end of the time allocated for debate Hon. Paul Fletcher, MP, noted that the original overseas may only use a weapon in defence of rights, freedoms and liberties in this place.’ of each parliamentary year, backbench MPs are including Rt Hon. Nicky Morgan, MP (Con), of Private Members’ Bills (2.30pm), Bills can only form of the Intelligence Services Act, 2001 another officer, agent or a limited category of Senator McKim noted that ‘on the legislation invited to enter the ballot. Bills which are selected Chair of the Treasury Select Committee, Rt make progress by consent of the House, and limited the ability of ASIS officers to act even in person co-operating with ASIS. The Act currently that is currently before us, it’s probably worth in the draw have priority on the floor of the House Hon. Hilary Benn, MP (Lab), Chair of the a single objection is enough to prevent further their own self-defence. Mr Fletcher commented prohibits an ASIS officer from using a weapon in pointing out that ASIS managed to illegally bug over other Private Members’ Bills. The Bill sought Exiting the European Union Select Committee debate. The Voyeurism Bill had been introduced that by 2004 and drawing on the experiences defence of an innocent person who is threatened the Timor-Leste government in order to defraud to require that residential rented accommodation (also known as the ‘Brexit’ Committee), and late in the session and was therefore so far down of the terrorist attacks of September 11 ‘the by a terrorist or kidnapper, even where this Timor-Leste out of hundreds of millions of dollars is provided and maintained in a state of fitness for Dr Sarah Wollaston, MP (Con), Chair of the the agenda for the day that it was not reached Act was amended to allow ASIS officers, where threat is present in front of the ASIS officer. The of revenue from the Timor oil and gas fields that human habitation, and to make provision about Health and Social Care Select Committee. until after 2.30pm. It was therefore possible for Sir authorised by the Minister for Foreign Affairs’, proposed amendments will allow an ASIS officer were rightly Timor-Leste’s. It was defrauded liability for residential accommodation that does not Ms Cooper said during the debate: “I tabled Christopher Chope to halt the Bill’s progress with to train in - and in certain circumstances use - confronted with this situation to act appropriately out of those revenues – unlawfully - by the comply with Building Regulations. amendment 7 because I am really worried that a single shout of “object!”. weapons for self-defence. in defence of the innocent person.’ Australian government through ASIS’s bugging The Bill received cross-party support and delays, drift or brinkmanship mean that there is During the Third Reading of the Mr Fletcher stated that ‘in the fifteen years The Shadow Attorney-General, Hon. of the Timor-Leste government deliberations Government backing. The Parliamentary Under- now a serious risk that we will end up crashing Government-backed Voyeurism (Offences) (No. since the last amendment related to ASIS’s use Mark Dreyfus, MP, noted that the Opposition on that matter. ASIS managed to do that quite Secretary of State for Housing, Communities out of the EU with no deal. I believe that the 2) Bill on 5 September 2018, Sir Christopher of force, the world has indisputably become supports the legislation ‘because we recognise successfully without an increase in their powers and Local Government, Heather Wheeler, Government should rule out no deal but, if they Chope, MP said “my purpose in saying ‘object’ even more complex - and Australia has become the need to modernise the legislative framework relating to how and in what circumstances they MP, said: “the Bill will empower tenants and help will not, Parliament must make sure that it has was that I wanted the Bill to be scrutinised, and more of an international terrorism and espionage that governs the Australian Secret Intelligence can use their weapons. That was one of the to further improve standards in rented houses the powers to do so if it comes to the crunch.” full marks to the Government … for recognising target.’ As a result, the legislation enables ASIS Service, ASIS, to reflect the changing operational most shameful acts of any intelligence agency and flats. It has been a pleasure working with The Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, that this was a Bill that could be properly to better protect its officers and other persons realities in the global environment and the nature in our country’s history - ripping off one of our the Hon. Member for Westminster North, and I Robert Jenrick, MP (Con), said: “Clause 89 scrutinised only if it became a Government when operating in hazardous environments of the national security challenges that Australia impoverished neighbours of many hundreds am sure her Bill will get the continued support it is simply prudent preparation to provide our Bill. So, did I achieve my objective? Yes, I did.” overseas. now faces.’ Mr Dreyfus concluded that ‘Labor of millions of dollars, at a minimum, that that deserves as it progresses.” taxpayers with the certainty they deserve … Rt Hon. Maria Miller, MP (Con) supported Sir The legislation enables the Minister for appreciates the non-partisan and consultative country could have used to help lift its people The Minister highlighted that it was the third Unless Parliament agrees a deal, the UK will Christopher Chope, saying in the debate: “If Foreign Affairs to specify additional persons manner in which this Bill has been dealt with. out of poverty and provide essential medical and Private Member’s Bill from a Labour MP which leave the European Union on 29 March with he had not objected, the Bill would have gone outside Australia who may be protected by an This should provide confidence to the Parliament educational services to its people.’ had received Government backing, following no deal, as that was the agreement we all through on the nod and the amendments we are ASIS staff member or agent. Mr Fletcher stated and to the wider community in regard to the Senator McKim concluded that ‘for readers the Assaults on Emergency Workers (Offences) knew when we voted to trigger article 50 [see debating today would not have been possible.” that ‘this will address a legal uncertainty identified additional powers that are conferred on ASIS of history, you should know that, when you give Act, 2018, sponsored by Chris Bryant, MP, European Union (Notification of Withdrawal) Act Wera Hobhouse, MP during the Third Reading by the Australian Government Solicitor (AGS) staff and ASIS agents by this Bill. Such an extra powers to intelligence agencies and allow and the Mental Health Units (Use of Force) Bill, 2017]. That is now the law, and amendment 7 said: “It is a pleasure of sorts to follow the Hon. in the ability of an ASIS staff member to be approach is an example of how national security those powers to be utilised by other government sponsored by Chris Reed, MP. Even in such does not change that simple truth.” Member for Christchurch (Sir Christopher Chope). compliant with the Act when defending certain legislation should be pursued.’ authorities, what we will see is mission creep politically divisive times in UK politics, these Bills The Government was defeated on the We have disagreed on things, but I am pleased to other persons including bystanders, and to train Senator Nick McKim, Australian Greens, and those powers being used for purposes perhaps demonstrate that there remains appetite amendment, which passed by 303 to 296, as a say that I agree with him that we want to make this for the use of force in those circumstances.’ commented that ‘it’s been argued by the that were not contemplated at the time that the for cross-party co-operation on certain issues. result of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) Bill as good as possible and, in particular, to ensure In relation to oversight, Mr Fletcher stated government that this is a minor increase powers were granted by this Parliament. So we The Bill passed its Third Reading in the voting with the Opposition, although they have that it acts as a good deterrent so that people do that ‘before directing a specified activity, the in powers which is both necessary and have very little faith when we hear assurances House of Commons on 26 October 2018 a confidence and supply agreement with the not consider this vile practice.” Minister for Foreign Affairs will be required to proportionate, but, in the view of the Australian that additional powers will not be used in and progressed to the House of Lords. Here Conservative Party. The Bill passed its Third Reading in the House consult with the Prime Minister, the Attorney- Greens, this is mission creep. This legislation unintended ways, and that is the case also with it received similar cross-party support and The Bill subsequently passed its Third of Commons without division on 5 December General, the Minister for Defence and other joins the many hundreds of pieces of legislation this legislation.’ completed its passage unamended. The Bill Reading in the House of Commons on 8 2018 and passed the House of Lords on 15 relevant Ministers.’ Mr Fletcher commented that received Royal Assent on 20 December 2018. January 2019 and completed its passage January 2019 and received Royal Assent on 12 ‘while lethal force may already be used in self- through the House of Lords on 7 February February 2019. defence as a last resort to protect an officer or Finance (No. 3) Bill 2017–19 2019 and received Royal Assent on 12 another protected person from serious harm or In the context of ‘Brexit’, the Finance (No. 3) February 2019. death, it is explicitly provided that in undertaking Bill became a political vehicle for MPs to signal such an activity ASIS staff members or agents their discontent with the Government’s Brexit Voyeurism (Offences) (No. 2) Bill will not, and must not, engage in torture; cruel, strategy and to give the UK Parliament greater The Bill would make certain acts of voyeurism inhumane or degrading treatment; sexual influence over the process. Rt Hon. Yvette an offence, including ‘upskirting’: the practice assault; or unlawful killings.’ Cooper, MP (Lab) tabled an amendment of taking unauthorised photographs under a Mr Fletcher advised that ‘oversight during the report stage, which, as set out in woman’s skirt or man’s kilt. Upskirting has been arrangements for these amendments will be the Member’s explanatory statement, “would covered by legislation in Scotland since 2010. critical, and will include key roles played by the prevent the Government implementing the ‘no The Voyeurism (Offences) (No. 2) Bill was Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security deal’ provisions of Clause 89 without the explicit introduced by the Government and superseded (IGIS) and the Parliamentary Joint Committee on consent of Parliament for such an outcome.” the Private Members’ Bill introduced by Wera Intelligence and Security (PJCIS).’ Mr Fletcher Clause 89 granted tax-raising and regulatory Hobhouse, MP (Liberal Democrats). When her stated that the IGIS will ‘ensure that ASIS’s powers to the Treasury in preparation for the Private Member’s Bill reached its Second Reading conduct is consistent with the law and with the

can; and if they want to vote for ‘BREXIT’ DOMINATES UK PARLIAMENTARY LEGISLATION it, they can.” Following Points of Order, Brexit has dominated the command a majority in the all that was needed was for the the Government despite having the amendment was approved UK Parliament and politics, House of Commons. Government whip, when the voted against the Withdrawal by 308 to 297 without debate. involving several historic The Government order was read by the Clerk at Agreement. This precedent could be events. was defeated on several the Table, to say “Tomorrow” Seeking to gain support for significant, as the term amendments relating to the instead of “Now”. the Withdrawal Agreement, ‘forthwith’ is used repeatedly ‘Meaningful vote’ delay Brexit process, including a The Speaker of the House the Prime Minister, Rt Hon. in the House of Commons As set out in the European cross-party amendment tabled of Commons, Rt Hon. John Theresa May, MP told the Standing Orders. Union (Withdrawal) Act, 2018, by Rt Hon. Dominic Grieve, Bercow, MP confirmed that House of Commons after the the Withdrawal Agreement QC, MP (Con) to the business this was in line with the rules ‘no confidence’ division:“We Contempt of Parliament between the UK and the EU motion on 4 December 2018. of the House but suggested have a responsibility to identify debate may be ratified only once the This amendment established that the better option would a way forward that can secure In December 2018, the UK House of Commons passes that, should the House of have been for the Government the backing of the House, and Government was found in a motion approving the Commons refuse to approve to move that the debate be to that end I have proposed a contempt of Parliament for the Withdrawal Agreement and the negotiated Withdrawal adjourned, thereby allowing series of meetings between first time. The contempt motion political declaration, known as Agreement (in the so-called the House to have a say on senior Parliamentarians was tabled by the Opposition the ‘meaningful vote’. ‘meaningful vote’), MPs would postponing the debate. He and representatives of the because the Government The draft Withdrawal be able to table amendments added that “no fewer than Government over the coming declined to publish the full legal Agreement, published in to the neutral motion which 164 colleagues have taken days.” advice provided by the Attorney November 2018, proved highly the Government was obliged the trouble to contribute [and General to the Cabinet on the controversial, primarily due to to bring forward to enable the this] will be thought by many Unprecedented amendment EU Withdrawal Agreement, the Northern Irish ‘backstop’. House to debate its plan for Members of this House to be to a business motion despite a resolution of the The ‘backstop’ establishes proceeding (neutral motions deeply discourteous.” The Speaker of the House Commons on 13 November that, if no permanent trade are ordinarily unamendable). of Commons, Rt Hon. John 2018 requiring publication of deal has been agreed between This was considered to give Historic Government defeat Bercow, MP faced scrutiny the advice. the UK and the EU at the MPs significant control over the and vote of ‘no confidence’ following his choice of an The Attorney General, Rt end of the transition period Government’s future course of The Government rescheduled amendment to a Business Hon. Geoffrey Cox, QC, MP, (December 2020) and there action. The Government was the vote on the Withdrawal of the House motion. The who took questions in the is no agreed extension of the defeated on this amendment by Agreement for Tuesday 15 business motion for the original chamber on his advice, stated transition period, the ‘backstop’ 321 votes to 299. January 2019 after attempts to (December 2018) ‘meaningful that: “if I am satisfied and of “a single customs territory With widespread opposition seek reassurance from the EU vote’ debate was being convinced that any disclosure between the (European) Union to the proposed Withdrawal on the ‘backstop’. Despite these amended by the Government of the kind the House has and the United Kingdom” will Agreement, the UK Prime attempts, opposition to the on 9 January 2019 to allow asked for would be contrary to be triggered. This is to ensure Minister, Rt Hon. Theresa May, Government on all sides of the the debate to resume. The the national interest, I cannot that there is no ‘hard’ border MP announced in a statement House remained steadfast. December 2018 business comply with the House’s between the Republic of Ireland to the House of Commons On 15 January 2019, the motion provided that it could request.” (part of the EU) and Northern on 10 December 2018 that Government backed motion not be varied or supplemented The Government attempted Ireland (part of the UK). the vote would be postponed, was defeated by 434 to 202, a except by a motion moved by to avoid defeat by tabling an Further, Northern Ireland will stating that “if we went ahead majority of 230. This was the a Minister of the Crown, and amendment to the contempt remain in regulatory alignment and held the vote tomorrow, biggest Government defeat in that any such motion should be motion to refer the case to the with the EU for trade purposes. the deal would be rejected history, overtaking the defeat taken ‘forthwith’. House of Commons Privileges of its Withdrawal Agreement understood to mean that these this House of Commons and Opponents argue that, if by a significant margin. We of then Prime Minister, Rt An amendment to the Committee. The Government from 21 days as set out in the motions are unamendable ... demonstrates that it is taking triggered, the UK could not will therefore defer the vote Hon. Ramsay MacDonald, government motion amending amendment was defeated by European Union (Withdrawal) Why have you changed your back control? As Speaker, you leave the ‘backstop’ unilaterally scheduled for tomorrow.” MP in 1924 by 166 votes. This the business motion was 311 to 307, and the contempt Act, 2018. This decision led interpretation of that word in have an absolute duty to ensure and it is not time-limited. Procedurally, the key immediately led the Leader of tabled by the backbencher, motion passed by 311 to 293. to lively points of order on this case?” that this House of Commons is The ‘backstop’ arrangement question was how, exactly, the Opposition, Rt Hon. Jeremy Rt Hon. Dominic Grieve, As a result, the Government 9 January 2018 before the Speaker Bercow gave his taken seriously, which is why I is opposed by Democratic the debate and vote could Corbyn MP, to table a motion QC, MP (Con). It stated that published the legal advice division on the amendment. interpretation: “We are not commend you for the decision Unionist Party (DUP) MPs who, be postponed, given that the of ‘no confidence’ against the “a Minister of the Crown shall which implied that Northern Sir Bernard Jenkin, treating here of a motion but of you have taken today.” as pro-unionists of the UK, are House had agreed to hold the Government, the first since 1993. table within three sitting days Ireland would remain in the MP (Con), Chair of the an amendment to a motion.” Speaker Bercow later against regulatory alignment debate and votes on specific As is customary, the a motion … considering the single market for goods as a Public Administration The Speaker of the House stated that “If we were guided with the Republic of Ireland. named dates. The Order of Government made time to process of exiting the European result of the ‘backstop’. This and Constitutional Affairs of Commons had support only by precedent, manifestly The DUP have a ‘confidence the Day for resuming the debate the motion: in this case, Union under article 50” should was subsequently described Committee, quoted Standing for his selection of the nothing in our procedures and supply’ agreement with adjourned debate remained in the next day. The motion of the motion on the Withdrawal as “unacceptable” by the DUP, Order No. 118 in the debate: amendment from MPs on both would ever change. Things do the Conservative Government the ownership of the mover of ‘no confidence’ was defeated Agreement be defeated. This contributing towards their “The Speaker shall put forthwith sides of the House. Angela change. I have made an honest to enable the Government to the motion – in this case the by 325 to 306 after the DUP would cut the time Government opposition to the Withdrawal the question thereon…has Eagle, MP (Lab) said: “Do judgment. If people want to vote Government – and therefore maintained their support for must respond to the defeat Agreement. always been thought and you … agree … [it] empowers against the amendment, they

that action on child poverty should have Opposition Member and ACT Party Leader, occurred sooner. Ms Marama Davidson, MP Mr David Seymour, MP supported the Bill, THIRD READING: NEW ZEALAND (Co-Leader, Green) argued, “Things should commenting, “We’ve got to get a bit realistic in never have gotten this bad. There is absolutely this debate. The debate is not about whether Dr Shane Reti, MP stated: “We oppose the to take action on climate change and begin a just no excuse or reason why things have gotten this cannabis is good or bad. … This Bill is a very normalisation of loose leaf in New Zealand transition to a low-carbon economy.” bad - why we have tamariki [children] who are small concession to those who are most society, and we oppose the lack of quality and In support of the government, the Minister being sent to hospital from poor, inadequate, and vulnerable in our community … they believe that safety with loose leaf. I say again: loose leaf is not of Conservation, Hon. Eugenie Sage, MP unhealthy housing; why incomes and household they can be palliated and helped by access to a medicine.” (Green) described the Bill as being “about incomes are so low that tamariki do not have all medicinal cannabis.” Minister Clark argued, however, that the signalling that we have got to make significant they need to live healthy, happy, dignified lives.” The regulatory framework of the medicinal legislation is “a compassionate approach for changes in the way we do business and in the The ACT Party remained the only party cannabis scheme was a point of contention people nearing the end of life, where the usual way we generate energy if we are going to get to opposed to the Bills. Mr David Seymour, MP across the House, with National calling for detail concerns, of course, around product safety, carbon-zero by 2050 and if we are going to shift (Leader, ACT) countered that the provisions on the licensing regime to be embedded in the quality, efficacy, and any long-term risks really our economy on to one that protects the climate in the Bills would not lift child poverty, arguing primary legislation. The government, however, are irrelevant.” rather than undermining it by promoting further oil that “If more money was the solution, then the opted instead for the detail to reside in regulation, The National Party also questioned how and gas exploration.” Government spending tens of billions of dollars which will be outlined after a consultation period. the temporary palliation exemption would National Party spokesperson for the a year in benefits and Working for Families The Opposition described this approach as “lazy”, be managed and called for a sunset clause environment, Ms Erica Stanford, MP (National) and accommodation supplements would have with Mr Simeon Brown, MP (National) stating, to be inserted into the Bill to specify when summarised many of the Opposition’s concerns solved poverty by now. All this Bill is going to do “we can’t just pass the buck on to officials and the exemption would end. Hon. Michael about the Bill: “There are so many issues with is tell us how many households are within 60% pass the buck on to other people. Yes, they may Woodhouse, MP (National), former Minister of this Bill: the massive decrease in investment in or 40% or 50% of the median income. It is not a assist in the process and may be able to provide Police, said that the exemption would “completely the Taranaki region … the loss of skilled people Child Poverty Reduction Bill and the strategy which is currently being developed. measure of child poverty. It’s not even a measure advice on the process, but we are, ultimately, the undermine the licensing regime” if patients could and the loss, potentially, of thousands of jobs; the Children’s Amendment Bill This will set out the Government’s vision for the of the incomes that houses have. It is a measure decision makers, as Parliament.” still procure cannabis from illicit sources. cost of billions of dollars of revenue … the fact The Child Poverty Reduction Bill and the well-being of all children, and, as New Zealand’s of how many households have incomes similar The Minister of Health, Hon. Dr David Instead of a fixed end-date, the Minister of that this Bill does nothing to deal with the issues Children’s Amendment Bill, introduced as one first child well-being strategy, it is an opportunity to how many other households. That’s the first Clark, MP (Labour), disagreed, however: “It’s Health will conduct a review of the statutory of demand … and the major issue of carbon Bill and subsequently divided at the Committee to harness collective goodwill, knowledge, and problem with this Bill - that it doesn’t actually true that most licensing regimes are administered defence within two years. Labour Member, Dr leakage, which means that global emissions will of the whole House, represent key pieces of resources to create positive change.” solve the problem of child neglect.” by officials. They seek expert advice and report Liz Craig, MP explained: “as Minister Clark likely rise, rather than decline.” legislation for the Labour – New Zealand First Members of the Opposition supported The Bills passed their Third Reading on 18 to Ministers, in many different portfolios, on was saying, what we’ve got is a two-year period Concerns about electricity prices were also coalition government. the Bills’ Third Reading, with National Party December 2018, with 118 votes to 1. the practical implications of current practice, where we then review it, and then, if the scheme a major issue behind opposition to the Bill. Hon. The Bills put into law provisions that require spokesperson for Children, Ms Maureen because if things are set up in regulation, it’s is up and running, that defence may well be Paul Goldsmith, MP (National) stated: “Every the government to set 10-year child poverty Pugh, MP commenting, “There’s no question Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) easier to quickly move if there’s a change in looked at and removed. But we’ve got to have New Zealander who struggles right now to pay reduction targets, develop and report on that across this House we are all combined in Amendment Bill circumstance, such as new studies that reveal the regime in place to have that, so that people their electricity and gas bills and to get through strategies to promote child well-being, and, on our desire to bring our children of Aotearoa out The Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) some products are dangerous or interact with can access medical cannabis that is produced to the long winter and figure out how to make ends Budget day, report progress on its stated child of poverty. This Bill certainly sets the way for us Amendment Bill passed its Third and final others and that changes need to be made.” a high standard.” meet has to be aware that this decision right poverty reduction goals. Additionally, the Bills to begin that journey. This is a Bill of the whole Reading in the New Zealand House of Green Party Member and party The Bill received the royal assent on 17 here, right now - this Bill—will undoubtedly make require the Government Statistician to prepare Parliament. I think this is actually an indication of Representatives on 11 December 2018. The spokesperson for drug law reform, Ms Chlöe December 2018. their energy bills higher in the years to come.” a report measuring child poverty each financial where cross-party agreement really does good Bill establishes a medicinal cannabis scheme Swarbrick, MP raised the issue of local Minister for Economic Development, Hon. year, independently from government, and for New Zealand.” to provide quality and regulated supply, and medicinal cannabis production: “I have a Crown Minerals (Petroleum) Amendment David Parker, MP (Labour) defended the that the report be presented to the House of Mr Dan Bidois, MP (National) added that deschedules cannabidiol so that it is no longer vision for a local medicinal cannabis scheme in Bill Bill, however, addressing concerns about the Representatives. while the Opposition supported the Bills, “there classified as a controlled drug. As an interim Aotearoa which provides us with an opportunity The Crown Minerals (Petroleum) Amendment transition to renewable energy generation and As the Bills’ sponsor, the Prime Minister and is much more that needs to be done in the areas measure, until the scheme has been fully to move away from a reliance on big business, Bill passed its Third Reading on 7 November investment, asserting that: “These are long time Minister for Child Poverty Reduction, Rt Hon. of housing and building housing - much more established, the Bill provides a criminal defence overseas pharmaceuticals. It’s not spurred by 2018. The purpose of the Bill is to give effect to frames. The system has time to adjust. I would Jacinda Ardern, MP (Labour), stated, “The than what has been done to date. There is much from prosecution for those requiring palliation moral panic or a fear of anything that isn’t cut the government’s announcement on offshore oil make some predictions as to how the system essence of this Bill is to try and build enduring more that needs to be done around the family who use medicinal cannabis. or pressed in a lab but informed by evidence in and gas exploration permits made on 12 April will adjust, because what is happening here is political accountability, consensus, and action unit, and I want to acknowledge the contribution New Zealand First Member, Mrs Jenny the developing research. It opens up a market 2018. The Bill amends the Crown Minerals Act we are creating investment certainty for those on the issue of child poverty and to reduce it.” from speakers on this side of the House who Marcroft, MP explained that although doctors that allows those who have been targeted and 1991 to ban the granting of offshore oil and who have to make the generation investments … “It sits within the Government’s wider work emphasised the role of the family unit but also can already prescribe medicinal cannabis in penalised disproportionately under the war gas permits and limits onshore permits to the that we need over the next couple of decades.” programme to ensure that the benefits of a that hard work and that pioneering attitude. How New Zealand, the coalition government wants on drugs to use their skills to retrain and to Taranaki region. Minister Parker also addressed concerns about strong, growing economy are shared more fairly. can we as politicians encourage and lead that “to make this product more readily available contribute to society. It provides an opportunity to It was brought to the House by the Minister the impact the Bill would have on energy prices, It sits within a work programme that focuses work ethic throughout New Zealand society? I - a good, high-quality product - and easily communities throughout regional New Zealand of Energy and Resources, Hon. Megan claiming: “The current cheapest sources of new on fixing critical problems in health, housing, think if we can do all of those things, then we will accessible, because the price point was putting it to not just stabilise unsustainable economic Woods, MP (Labour), who explained that generation are renewables, proven by the fact education, transport, and so many other sectors.” truly alleviate child poverty in New Zealand.” out of reach for all New Zealanders.” decline but to flourish on their own terms.” the Bill “will limit new petroleum prospecting, that that’s what those companies are investing The Minister for Disability Issues, Hon. The Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand, The Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Simon Many National Party Members expressed exploration, and mining permits to the onshore in - in geothermal and wind.” Carmel Sepuloni, MP (Labour), told the as the government’s confidence and supply Bridges, MP (Leader, National), argued, however, concern with the possibility of patients smoking Taranaki region only, and it guarantees the The Bill was passed with 63 votes to 56 House that “Children with disabilities will be partner, also supported the Bills at their Third “that what in fact this Bill is is decriminalisation of loose-leaf cannabis, particularly in public protection of existing permits” and who and received the royal assent on 12 November an important focus within the child well-being Reading; however, some Members did feel cannabis by stealth in this Parliament today.” places. National party spokesperson for health, described the legislation as “an important step 2018.

QUOTA IN EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION DEBATED IN INDIA PARLIAMENT’S WINTER SESSION The Constitution of India has a maximum of 10%. All minority be debarred from making economic ground, he wanted been amended to provide educational institutions as legislation on this subject. to know whether the various reservation in employment mentioned in the Constitution Initiating the debate, Prof. schemes for the economically and higher education to have been excluded from the KV Thomas (INC) said his weaker sections started by the economically weaker ambit of this law. This will be in party is not against the concept governments including the sections of society. As addition to the existing ceiling of the Bill, but the way it has ones led by the BJP and the required by the Constitution, of 50% reservation available to been brought raises several Congress have failed. each House of Parliament the socially and educationally questions on the sincerity of Shri Sudip Bandyopadhyay passed the Constitution backward classes (OBC), the the government. He alleged (TMC) while supporting 124th (Amendment) Bill, 2019 scheduled castes (SC) and that the government has the Bill questioned the said the economically weaker Shri Bhagwant Mann (APP) The Minister of State in the to economically backward by a majority of the total scheduled tribes (ST). brought the Bill without proper government record of section of society needs to be termed the Bill as an election Ministry of Health and Family people from general category. membership of the House and The Act amends Articles homework and demanded providing employment to identified and be provided with stunt. If BJP cared so much Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel Shri Prem Das Rai (SDF) by a majority of not less than 15 and 16 of the Constitution, for referring it to a Joint the unemployed youth and affirmative support. about the poor, it should have (Apna Dal) wanted to ensure also supported the Bill. two-thirds of the Members of by adding a clause which Parliamentary Committee (JPC). asked the government to take Shri Jitendra Chaudhury introduced the Bill on the first day that people whose economic Supporting the Bill, Shri the House present and voting. allows States to make special Intervening in the debate, the concrete steps in this direction. (CPI-M) said the economically of the first session and not on the condition improves after availing Rajesh Ranjan (RJD) urged The Bill received President’s provision for the advancement Minister of Finance and Minister Shri Anandrao Adsul (Shiv backward section of population last day of the last session. the benefit of reservation do the government to bring caste assent on 12 January 2019. of any economically weaker of Corporate Affairs, Shri Arun Sena) supporting the Bill said is required to be supported in Shri Upendra Kushwaha not continue to avail the benefit census so that reservation On 8 January 2019, the last sections of citizens. The Jaitley described the Bill as a providing 10% reservation all respects. In order to make (RLSP) was happy that of reservation. She wanted to can be granted on the basis of day of the Winter Session of Lok economically weaker sections move to grant equal opportunity for people belonging to the Bill more comprehensive he reservation is being provided know whether reservation will be population of each caste and Sabha that had commenced will be such as may be notified to all and for ensuring Sabka economically weaker sections wanted it to be examined by a for the unemployed youth provided to backward classes category. on 11 December 2018, after a by the State from time to Saath, Sabka Vikas. is a just a new starting. JPC or the Standing Committee. belonging to the upper castes according to their population Shri Hukmdev Narayan near five-hour long debate, the time on the basis of family This equality of status and Shri A. P. Jithender Smt. Supriya Sule (NCP) and requested for extending it after the 2021 census. Yadav (BJP) said the Bill has House passed the Constitution income and other indicators of opportunity mentioned in Reddy (TRS) said reservation supporting the Bill wanted to to the private sector as well. Shri Dushyant Chautala translated his dream and the 124th (Amendment) Bill, 2019 economic disadvantage. the Constitution was meant in education and also in know what was the urgency in Shri Deepender Singh (INLD) wanted to know how the cause he has been fighting all to provide 10% reservation to Most of the Opposition to remove the gap between employment opportunities bringing such an important Bill? Hooda (INC) expressed doubt government will identify that a his life into a reality. economically backward sections parties, including the SP, TRS, the privileged and the for the economically weaker Shri Dharmendra Yadav on the commitment of the particular person is economically Shri Venkatapura in the general category in AITC, BJD, the Left and the INC disadvantages. The Parliament sections of the society will (SP) while supporting the Bill government and said had poor and whether any survey Subbaiah Ugrappa (INC) recruitments and admission in supported the Bill. However, is empowered to make law make the society inclusive raised question about the the government been truly will be conducted as the data appreciating the Bill said if the higher educational institutions. several of the opposition providing special opportunities and stronger. He believed intention and manner in which committed to this cause, it would available with the government government was so keen on In Lok Sabha, 323 Members parties also questioned the to those who are socially the reservation policy would the Bill has been introduced. He have come up with the Bill earlier. is that of the year 2011 and social justice, it should have voted in favour of the Bill, timing of the Bill, claiming or educationally backward. be more effective when asked for undertaking a caste- Shri Nand Kumar Chauhan the economic condition of the brought this Bill much earlier. while three voted against it. In the government’s move was Similarly, the poor section of standardized. based census and providing (BJP) believed the Bill will pave people has deteriorated during Replying to the debate, the Rajya Sabha, which had been spurred by the coming national other classes will be provided The Minister of Consumer reservation in proportion to the the way for the prosperity of the last eight years between Minister, Shri Thaawarchand extended by a day, the Bill and elections. AIADMK staged a 10% reservation on the basis of Affairs, Food and Public percentage of population. the children of the poor from 2011 to 2019. Gehlot said, it is a historic the motion for its reference walkout before the voting. economic backwardness. The Distribution, Shri Ram Vilas Dr Mahendra Nath Pandey general category. Shri Ramdas Athawale moment and the Bill will to a Select Committee for Moving the motion for the ceiling of 50% for reservation Paswan (LJP) said it was a long- (BJP) described the Bill as Shri E. T. Mohammad (RPI) appreciated the decision provide equal opportunities to examination and report were consideration of the Bill in Lok imposed by the Supreme Court standing demand which has a historical step and said Basheer (IUML) said the to provide 10% reservation those who are economically discussed together on 9 January Sabha, the Minister of Social under Article 16(4) is based on been fulfilled by the present NDA the government has given dramatic way of bringing this to the economically weaker weaker in upper caste. He 2019 and after rejecting the Justice and Empowerment, caste basis reservation. government. He suggested that the benefit of reservation to legislation by bulldozing all the sections of general category. said, millions of poor from the demand for sending the Bill to Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot Shri Jaitley countered the along with the SC, ST and OBC the poor from the general healthy parliamentary practices Opposing the Bill, Shri general category irrespective a Select Committee, the House clarified that 10% reservation allegations related to timing quota, this 10% provision for category without reducing is highly condemnable and Asaduddin Owaisi (AIMIM) of their religion, will get the passed the Bill by 165 to 7 votes, will be given without tampering of the legislation and cited the upper caste should be included anyone’s reservation. objectionable. said the Bill is a fraud on benefit of reservation. Shri after a long seven-hour debate. with the existing quotas for Congress party’s 2014 election in the Ninth Schedule of the Opposing the way the Bill was Prof. Richard Hay (BJP) the Constitution as the Gehlot believed that the law, The Act empowers the SCs, STs, and OBCs. As such manifesto in which it had talked Constitution to remove any fear introduced, Shri Jai Prakash termed the Bill as a game- Constitution does not recognise even if challenged in the State to make any provision efforts earlier were struck down about such move. He accused of it being challenged in the Narayan Yadav (RJD) asked for changing legislation. economically weaker section. Supreme Court, will stand for the reservation in by the Supreme Court due to the Congress Party of adopting Supreme Court. Shri Paswan a survey to find out the persons Shri N.K. Premachandran The original purpose of the the scrutiny as it has been appointments or posts in lack of constitutional support double standards. also asked the government to who are landless and shelter-less (RSP), while supporting the reservation was to give social brought with the constitutional favour of any economically the government decided to The AIADMK member and provide reservation in private persons and those deprived of contents of the Bill for providing justice, to reduce social and provisions. He refuted the weaker sections of citizens amend the Constitution for the Deputy Speaker of Lok sector and judiciary too. education and jobs to provide benefit to the economically educational backwardness. charge that decision on the and for their admission to making such provision. After Sabha, Dr M. Thambidurai Stating that economically reservation on that basis. backward people, alleged that Shri Kaushalendra Kumar issue has been taken in haste. higher educational institutions the addition of a sub-clause demanded for increasing the weaker sections for the first Shri Nishikant Dubey (BJP) the Bill has not been brought (JD-U) was happy that a Bill has He assured that though the including private educational to Article 15 and 16 of the reservation ceiling to 69% for time will get benefit through said the Bill represents Sabka in good faith and violates the been brought to give reservation decision is belated, the policy institutions, whether aided or Constitution, the State and the socially backward people. affirmative action,Shri Saath Sabka Vikas. procedural formality. and intention is pure. unaided by the State, subject to Union governments cannot Questioning the reservation on Bhartruhari Mahtab (BJD)

THIRD READING: INDIA

security and defence purpose. It was proposed state should also be with the farmers, that Second Amendment) Bill, 2018 to give effect to the amendments from the is, the original owners of the land. The National Commission for the Scheduled date of enactment of the Requisitioning and • To ensure safety and security of poor Castes and Scheduled Tribes came into being Acquisition of Immovable Property Act, 1952, people, if the land has to be acquired for consequent upon passing of the Constitution namely, the 14 March 1952. the purpose of poverty alleviation, this also (Sixty-fifth Amendment) Act, 1990. The said should be included in this. For instance, Commission was constituted on 12 March Debate construction of houses, educational 1992 replacing the Commission for the During the discussion on the Amending Bill in both institutions and health institutions for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Houses, the following points mainly emerged: purpose of public good is also part and set up under the Resolution of 1987. Under • A reasonable opportunity of hearing parcel of the safety and security of the Article 338 of the Constitution, the National is being provided under clause of the country. Commission for the Scheduled Castes and Amending legislation. This is beneficial to The Minister-in-charge in his reply to debate Scheduled Tribes was constituted with the the person who is going to be affected. observed that any sovereign state must have objective of monitoring all the safeguards There are number of cases where the the power to requisition and then acquire provided for the Scheduled Castes and the acquisition proceedings were taken up but land for the purposes of defence and national Scheduled Tribes under the Constitution or remained inconclusive. No compensation security. The State wants to pay fair and just other laws. had been given. Ultimately, so many compensation. There is Section 7, which The National Commission for Scheduled acquisitions and requisitions had been provides that the land or assets so requisitioned Tribes was created vide the Constitution declared illegal and void. The compulsion can then be acquired within a period of 17 (Eighty-ninth Amendment) Act, 2003 by which had been assigned under the Act years. The compensation is paid at the point inserting a new Article 338A in the Constitution. had been provided under Section 8 of of acquisition. It is becoming relevant because Consequently, under Article 338 of the the Act. In substance, nothing had been some parties, when they have their assets Constitution, the reference was restricted to given as to what would be the amount acquired, may either keep quiet about it for the National Commission for the Scheduled of compensation. If it is either by an some time or they choose through collusion to Castes. Under clause (10) of Article 338 of agreement or by arbitration as to what go to the Court. the Constitution, the National Commission for could be the principles, nothing had been According to the Act, the Government Scheduled Castes is presently empowered laid down as such. Hence, there must be a should pay compensation when the notice for to look into the grievances and complaints of formula of paying compensation. acquisition is issued. But some people would discrimination of Other Backward Classes also. • The Amending Bill intends to ensure justice go to the Court and challenge that notice for In the year 1992, the Supreme Court of and payment of outstanding amount to the acquisition on the condition that they have not India in the matter of Indra Sawhney and others people in a time bound manner. been provided a hearing. So, the Government Vs. Union of India and others (AIR 1993, SC • There is no objection to the acquisition has to complete that lacuna. This amendment 477) had directed the Government of India to of land for public purposes and security is solely for the point of determining the date constitute a permanent body for entertaining, purposes, if proper compensation is paid for the compensation to be computed. A very examining and recommending requests for The Requisitioning and Acquisition of ground that the same had been published Sub-Section viz. (1A) had been inserted to the affected persons. But it is not important clarification, which might address inclusion and complaints of over-inclusion Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill, without affording personal hearing to them which contains provisions to enable the proper to acquire cultivable and fertile some of the doubts, is that the Government and under-inclusion in the Central List of 2017 by the competent authority. However, after Central Government to re-issue the notice land to raise a business. A law needs has no intention to open up cases where Other Backward Classes. Pursuant to the The Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable prolonged litigation traversing up to the Supreme of acquisition to the owner or such other to be invariably be made to convert compensation has already been provided and said Judgment, the National Commission Property Act, 1952 was enacted to empower Court, if the interested persons succeed in person interested in the property, for the the wasteland into fertile land. Notice, where the recipient has already received the for Backward Classes Act was enacted in the Central Government to requisition, for the getting a notice of acquisition quashed, they purpose of giving opportunity of being heard. therefore, needs to be served to the land compensation. April, 1993 and the National Commission for purposes of the Union, any immovable property, would be bestowed with the unintended benefit The owner or the person interested in the owner only. People tend to lose their Finally, the Minister reiterated that this Backward Classes was constituted on 14 and to acquire such requisitioned property under of compensation for their property as on the property has also been entitled to annual rate life savings in the prolonged litigation. Amendment is specifically to deal with the August 1993 under the said Act. certain specified conditions. The said Act came date of publication of fresh notice of acquisition. of interest, prevalent at any relevant time on Therefore, it had been requested that Government of India’s acquisition under Section 7 At present the functions of the National into force on 14 March 1952. It was felt that this may cause astronomical hike the compensation payable, from the date there is a need to bring improvement in for national security and defence purposes only. Commission for Backward Classes is limited The power to requisition immovable property in the quantum of compensation because of the of publication of the first notice, till the final this regard. The Amending Bill was passed by Lok to examining the requests for inclusion of any for public purposes is under Section 3 of the inevitable appreciation of the market value of the payment of compensation. • With regard to compensation, it was felt Sabha on 20 December 2017 and by Rajya class of citizens as a backward class in the Act and the power to acquire requisitioned property between the original date of publication Further, it had also been provided that that amount of compensation can be Sabha on 18 July 2018. The technical Lists and hear complaints of over-inclusion or property is under Section 7. The principles and of notice of acquisition and the present date of any enhanced compensation with or without increased if it is related to security only. It amendment with regard to change of year of under-inclusion of any backward class in such method of determination of compensation for publication of the same, pursuant to the orders interest awarded by the court or other authority, would not be appropriate to acquire land Bill was adopted by Lok Sabha subsequently lists and tender such advice to the Central requisitioned property and payment thereof had of the courts. before the date of commencement of the on the rates prevailing in 1950. Further, on 7 August 2018. The Bill as passed by both Government as it deems appropriate. With a been laid down in Sections 8 and 9 of the Act. Accordingly, the Government brought proposed amendment, shall be subject to land requisition should be made for public Houses of Parliament was assented to by the view to safeguard the interests of the socially There had been instances of persons forward the Requisitioning and Acquisition the re-issuance of the proposed notice of purposes only. President of India on 31 July 2018. and educationally backward classes more interested in the requisitioned property of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill, acquisition and shall be applicable only to the • It was sought to be reiterated that effectively, it had been proposed to create a challenging the notice of acquisition on the 2017. In Section 7 of the parent Act a new cases of property being acquired for national stakeholding of the land acquisition by the The Constitution (One Hundred and National Commission for Backward Classes

with constitutional status at par with the National backward classes which shall for the had held that a preliminary enquiry shall be a case under this Act, notwithstanding any Commission for Scheduled Castes and the purposes of this Constitution be deemed conducted by a Deputy Superintendent judgment or order or direction of any Court. National Commission for Scheduled Tribes. to be socially and educationally backward of Police to find out whether allegations In order to protect the interests of In view to achieve this objective, the classes in relation to that State or Union make out a case under the said Act before Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, in Government brought forward the Constitution territory, as the case may be. Further, registering a First Information Report relating 1989, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (One-hundred and Second) Amendment Bill, the Parliament may by law include in or to commission of an offence and the approval (Prevention of Atrocities) Act was enacted. This 2018. exclude from the Central List of socially of an appropriate authority shall be obtained Act covers 22 offences. The National Commission for the Scheduled and educationally backward classes before arrest of any person in connection with Further, 25 new offences had been included Castes had recommended in its Report for specified in a notification issued under such offence. in the Act and now in total 47 offences are 2014-15 that the handling of the grievances clause (1) any socially and educationally The provisions of the Code of Criminal covered under it. On certain issues where writ of the socially and educationally backward backward class, but save as aforesaid a Procedure, 1973, however, provide that petition was filed in the Supreme Court had classes under clause (10) of Article 338 notification issued under the said clause every information relating to commission of delivered a verdict on 20 March 2018. The should be given to the National Commission for shall not be varied by any subsequent an offence, if given, shall be recorded and Supreme Court while interpreting Section 18 of Backward Classes. notification. where the investigating officer has a reason to the parent Act delivered its verdict with certain • Finally, an amendment had also been suspect the commission of an offence, he can restrictions. In continuation to the decision of Salient Features of the Bill made in Article 366 of the Constitution by arrest a person and there is no requirement Supreme Court, the Government had filed a • A new Article 338 has been inserted to inserting new sub-clause (26) providing of conducting a preliminary enquiry before review petition. constitute the National Commission for that “socially and educationally backward recording of any such information or While the matter was under consideration Backward Classes which shall consist of a classes” mean the backward classes as obtaining of an approval from any authority of the Supreme Court and in view that certain Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and three are so deemed under Article 342A for the before arresting any person. Moreover, such more time would be taken in decision by the other Members. The said Commission purposes of the Constitution. preliminary enquiry and approval would only Supreme Court, the Government realized would have the mandate to hear the delay the filing of a charge sheet. that the justice to the people belonging to grievances of socially and educationally Debate The principles of criminal jurisprudence and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes was backward classes, a function which has During the debates on the Constitution Section 41 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, being delayed. Therefore, the Government took been discharged so far by the National Amendment Bill, Members expressed their 1973 as interpreted in several judgments, a considered view to restore the purpose of the Commission for Scheduled Castes under unanimous consent to the measure. implies that once the investigating officer has Act for which it was enacted. A new provision clause (10) of Article 338. The Bill was passed by Lok Sabha on reasons to suspect that an offence has been to Section 18 had been made by adding 18A. • The Commission had been vested with 10 April 2017. On a procedural matter, an committed, he can arrest an accused. This all the powers of a civil court trying a suit amendment was made by Rajya Sabha on 31 decision to arrest or not to arrest cannot be Debate and in particular in respect of the following July 2017. Pursuant to requirements under taken away from the investigating officer. During the discussion on the Amending Bill in matters, namely: - Rules, an alternative amendment and requisite In view of this position the Government felt both Houses of Parliament the following main (a) summoning and enforcing the further amendments were made by Lok Sabha it was expedient in the public interest that the points emerged: - attendance of any person from any part on 2 August 2018. This being a Constitutional provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, • The new proposed clause 18A would of India and examining him on oath; Amendment, as was necessary, these were 1973 be made applicable in respect of provide relief for all the concerned (b) requiring the discovery and agreed to by Rajya Sabha on 6 August registration of First Information Report relating persons. 24 lakh vacancies in Government production of any document; 2018. This Constitution Amendment Bill was to commission of an offence or arrest of any sector need to be filled. A suggestion was (c) receiving evidence on affidavits; assented to by the President of India on 11 person without any preliminary enquiry or also made to include the Bill in the Ninth (d) requisitioning any public record or August 2018. approval of any authority, as the case may be. Schedule to the Constitution of India. copy thereof from any court or office; Accordingly, the Government brought • The Bill was brought to give justice to the (e) issuing commissions for the The Scheduled Castes and the forward the Scheduled Castes and the 25 crore people belonging to Scheduled examination of witnesses and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Castes in the country. To ensure the documents; and Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018 Amendment Bill, 2018. In the parent Act supremacy of the Parliament, it is (f) any other matter which the President The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled [the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled mandatory that all speak unanimously in may, by rule, determine. Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989] its favour. • The Union and every State Government (hereinafter referred to as said Act) was a new Section viz. 18A had been inserted The Bill nevertheless met with consensus shall consult the Commission on all major enacted with a view to prevent the commission which provided that the (a) preliminary enquiry among all sections of the Houses. The Bill was policy matters affecting socially and of offences of atrocities against the members shall not be required for registration of a First passed by Lok Sabha on 6 August 2018 and educationally backward classes. Further, of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Information Report against any person; or by Rajya Sabha on 9 August 2018. The Bill a new Article viz. 342A had also been Tribes and to provide for Special Courts and (b) the investigating officer shall not require as passed by both Houses of Parliament was proposed to be inserted. exclusive Special Courts for the trial of such approval for the arrest, if necessary, of any assented to by the President of India on 17 • The main provisions of newly inserted offences and for the relief and rehabilitation of person, against whom an accusation of having August 2018. Article are the President may with respect the victims of such offences. The said Act was committed an offence under this Act has to any State or Union territory, and where amended in 2015 with an objective to deliver been made and no procedure other than that it is a State, after consultation with the greater justice to members of the Scheduled provided under this Act or the Code shall apply. Governor thereof, by public notification, Castes and the Scheduled Tribes. It has also been provided that the provisions specify the socially and educationally In a recent judgment, the Supreme Court of Section 438 of the Code shall not apply to

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Kadaga, MP Speaker of Parliament, Uganda Hon. Senator Eno Lafon Hon. Imran Ahmad, MP Dr Roberta Blackman-Woods, MP INDIA SOUTH-EAST ASIA Emma Veryelle, MP Bangladesh United Kingdom CPA Headquarters Secretariat VICE-PRESIDENT: (2018-2019): Cameroon (2015-2019*) (2015-2019*) Vacant (2015-2019*) Shri Feroze Varun Gandhi, MP Hon. Datuk Dr Ronald Kiandee, MP Mr Akbar Khan Hon. Dr Fehmida Mirza, MP Hon. Stuart McMillan, MSP Lok Sabha, India Deputy Speaker, Malaysia 7th CPA Secretary-General CHAIRPERSON OF THE Vacant Pakistan Scotland (stand in for (2015-2019*) (2015-2019*) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Nigeria (2016-2019) Northern Ireland) Commonwealth Parliamentary Tel: +44 (0)20 7799 1460 (2017-2020): (2015-2019*) (2016-2019) Shri Premchand Aggarwal, MLA Hon. Datuk Wira Haji Othman Association, CPA Headquarters Email: [email protected] Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP Hon. Dr Lal Chand Ukrani, MPA Speaker of the Legislative Muhamad, MP Secretariat, Richmond House, www.cpahq.org Deputy Speaker, Cameroon Hon. Bernard Songa Sindh Hon. Leona Roberts, MLA Assembly, Uttarakhand Speaker, Malacca Houses of Parliament, London Twitter @CPA_Secretariat Sibalatani, MP (2017-2020) Falkland Islands (2016-2019) (2016-2019) SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom Facebook.com/CPAHQ VICE-CHAIRPERSON Vice-Chairperson of the National (2017-2020) (2017-2019*): Council, Namibia Shri Hitendra Goswami, MLA Hon. Mr Zainal Sapari, MP Hon. Alexandra Mendès, MP (2016-2019) Speaker of the Legislative Singapore A full listing of all CPA Branches can be found in Canada. Regional Representative, AUSTRALIA CANADA Assembly, Assam (2017-2020) the CPA Directory at: www.cpahq.org Canada Region (2015-2019*) Hon. Lazarous C. Chungu, MP (2017-2020) Zambia TREASURER (2016-2019): (2016-2019) Hon. Russell Paul Wortley, MLC Hon. Alexandra Mendès, MP Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Steering Committee Mrs Vicki Dunne, MLA President of the Legislative Canada Deputy Speaker, Australian Hon. Dr Makali Mulu, MP Council, South Australia (2015-2019*) PRESIDENT: ASIA CANADA PACIFIC Capital Territory Kenya (2015-2019*) Also CPA Vice-Chairperson Vacant Ms Munaza Hassan, MNA Ms Laura Ross, MLA Ms Anahila Kanongata’a- (2017-2020) (2018-2019) Pakistan Saskatchewan Suisuiki, MP COMMONWEALTH WOMEN Hon. John Ajaka, MLC Hon. Jackson Lafferty, MLA (2018-2021) (2017-2020) New Zealand Parliament PARLIAMENTARIANS (CWP) Rt Hon. Sephiri Enoch President of the Legislative Speaker of Legislative CHAIRPERSON (2017-2020) CHAIRPERSON Motanyane, MP Council, New South Wales Assembly, Northwest Territories Hon. Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, MP AUSTRALIA CARIBBEAN, AMERICAS (2016-2019): Speaker of the National (2016-2019) (2016-2019) Malaysia Ms Michelle O’Byrne, MP AND THE ATLANTIC SOUTH-EAST ASIA Hon. Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, MP Assembly, Lesotho (2016-2019) Tasmania Hon. Jeannine Giraudy- Vacant Malaysia (2017-2020) Hon. Bruce Atkinson, MLC Hon. Kevin Murphy, MHA (2016-2019) McIntyre, MP (2016-2019) President of the Legislative Speaker of the House of AFRICA Also Vice-Chairperson of the President of the Senate, St Lucia CPA SMALL BRANCHES Council, Victoria Assembly, Nova Scotia Hon. Angela Thoko Didiza, MP CWP (2018-2019) (2018-2021) CHAIRPERSON (2017-2020) (2017-2020) South Africa (2016-2019): (2016-2019) BRITISH ISLANDS AND INDIA Hon. Anġelo Farrugia, MP MEDITERRANEAN Smt. Kirron Kher, MP Speaker of the House of Ms Joyce Watson, AM Lok Sabha, India (2017-2020) Representatives, Malta Wales (2015-2018)

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