More women make better politics - Visit of Michelle Bachelet, Director UN Women

Published: Tuesday, March 12, 2013

The National Women's Council of Ireland was delighted to host a meeting on Women in Political Decision Making with Michelle Bachelet, Director of UN Women on 21st February 2013. The former President of Chili gave an inspiring insight into her experience as a female politician. Ms Bachelet highlighted the need for more women to get involved in politics and the importance of female role models in particular for young women and girls. She emphasised the need for transitional measures, such as gender quotas, to ensure that women are equally represented in politics.

Ms Bachelet said, 'We cannot talk about human rights, equality, representation and inclusion and continue to exclude entire sections of the population. Research shows that the presence of women in political institutions qualitatively changes politics. When women and men lead together, decisions better reflect and respond to the diversity and the diverse needs of society.'

Gender quotas were also highlighted as an important step towards greater participation of women in politics by Ms Kathleen Lynch TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Equality, Disability, Older People and Mental Health who chaired the meeting.

Orla O'Connor, Director of the NWCI emphasised the importance for action in Ireland . 'This is a very critical time for women's rights in Ireland and the absence of women in politics and senior decision making in Irish society has left a very detrimental legacy here. We are delighted to host this meeting with Ms Bachelet today.'

Edel Clancy fromt the 50/50 Group spoke about the work the organisation is doing to encourage more women to run for election. Edel Clancy said, 'The time for tea and sympathy is over. We are campaigning for 50/50 by 2020.'  

Michelle Bachelet's full speech is available on the UN Women website.