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IWD: EU Decries Low Women Representation in Politics

Published

2 months ago

March 7, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

IWD: EU Decries Low Women Representation in Politics

By: Michael Mike

The European Union has decried the low number of women in political offices, insisting that there is no just gender representation in politics.

A statement by EU on Thursday to mark the International Women’s Day read: “Today, the percentage of women in politics is still far from being representative of our diverse societies. The overall proportion of female members in single or lower houses of parliament currently stands on average at 33% in EU Member States and 26.5% globally. We must continue to do more to inspire and promote the inclusion of women in politics.
2024 is a landmark year for elections throughout the world, with over 4 billion people being asked to cast their votes, including more than 400 million EU citizens who will vote in June in the European Parliament elections. On this International Women’s Day, we recognise the courageous activism of European suffragettes who fought for the right to vote when it was the privilege of men, and to every woman in all their diversity who plays a part in shaping a fairer and more equal society.

The statement added that: “In many parts of the world, regrettably women are still prevented from taking part in public life and in some contexts are entirely excluded from decision-making and public space. Across all societies, women continue to face discrimination and are at increased risk of online and offline violence. This is particularly acute for women politicians, journalists, and activists, in particular human rights defenders.

“In this year of elections, we encourage all women, including young women, everywhere to exercise their right to vote, to claim their space in society and to feel empowered to participate in political life.”

The statement said the global theme of the 2024 International Women’s Day is “Inspire Inclusion”, which is in line with this year’s United Nations theme “Invest in women: Accelerate progress”. Women’s participation in society is of the essence, including in decision-making positions.

It revealed that on 6 March 2024, Vice-President Jourová opened the Commission’s “Women in public life” high-level event in Brussels, in the context of the forthcoming European Parliament elections, noting that different panels focused on challenges faced by women in politics, journalism, and civil society.

It added that participants discussed why women decide to leave public-facing positions and identified concrete solutions to end this trend, including with the engagement of the media platforms, regulatory bodies, and political parties.

The statement decried that women continue to be underrepresented in politics. In 2023, only 6 Member States achieved a gender balance of greater than 40% in their members of parliament (MP), with 7 Member States having fewer than 25% female MPs. The European Parliament is close to a gender balance of members of 40% women and 60% men.

It stated that: “As of January 2024, only 5 Member States out of 27 have female heads of state. Globally, women hold just 26.7% of parliamentary seats, 35.5% of local government seats and only 28.2% of management positions in the workplace. With the current slow pace of change, women’s share of workplace management positions will reach only 30% by 2050. The Commission will support Member States in developing and implementing more effective strategies to increase the number of women in decision-making positions, such as the introduction of gender balanced electoral lists that lead to better policies, to an anti-discrimination and anti-sexist culture and to stronger democracies that address the different social needs better.”

It further added that: “Today, the Commission also published its 2024 Report on Gender Equality in the EU, providing an overview of the progress made in implementing the Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025. Most of the actions set out in the strategy have already been accomplished. The first Commission led by a woman and composed of a gender-balanced College of Commissioners, and the first Commissioner for Equality have succeeded in putting gender equality at the heart of the EU agenda. The Commission also made sustainable progress in reaching gender balance at all levels of management. On 1 March 2024 women held 48.5 % of all management positions within the Commission.
The most recent breakthrough is the political agreement reached on 6 February 2024 between the European Parliament and the Council on the Commission’s proposal for a Directive on combating violence against women and domestic violence. The Directive is the first comprehensive legal instrument at EU level to tackle violence against women, which is still too pervasive. The Directive criminalises certain forms of violence against women across the EU, both offline and online. Female genital mutilation and forced marriage will be criminalised as stand-alone crimes. The most widespread forms of cyberviolence will also be criminalised, including the non-consensual sharing of intimate images (including deepfakes), cyber-stalking, cyber-harassment, misogynous hate speech and “cyber-flashing”. The Directive also provides for comprehensive measures for victims’ protection, access to justice and support, such as shelters, rape crisis centres and helplines. These measures will benefit victims of all forms of violence against women which are criminalised at national level.

“The past four years were marked by several important legislative milestones advancing gender equality. Just one year after the adoption of the Gender Equality Strategy, in March 2021, the Commission put forward a proposal for a Directive strengthening the equal pay principle through pay transparency and enforcement mechanisms. A political agreement on the Pay Transparency Directive, was reached in December 2022, in record time, paving the way for the adoption of the Directive in May 2023. The new transparency and remedies rules will help to ensure that the principle of equal pay for equal work or work of equal value, enshrined in the Treaty since 1957, finally becomes a reality on the ground.
As of August 2022, the new EU-wide work-life balance rights for parents and carers started applying. In September 2022, the Commission presented the European Care Strategy, linked to new targets on early childhood education and care to enhance women’s labour market participation.

“In November 2022, ten years after it was proposed by the European Commission, the Directive on Gender Balance on Corporate Boards was adopted. This new EU law will help break barriers hindering women’s career advancement.
On 8 March 2023, the Commission launched the #EndGenderStereotypes campaign, which ran throughout last year. The campaign challenges viewers to reveal and question gender stereotypes in career choices, care responsibilities and decision-making.

“In October 2023, the Commission became a party to the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence – the Istanbul Convention. The EU is now bound by ambitious and comprehensive standards to prevent and combat violence against women in the area of judicial cooperation in criminal matters, asylum and non-refoulement and with regard to its public administration. This includes funding, policy, and legislative measures.

“In Autumn 2023, the Commission established an EU network on the prevention of gender-based violence and domestic violence. The network provides the space for Member States and stakeholders to discuss new and emerging issues of violence prevention, exchange of knowledge and good practice.

“The Commission will put forward a Recommendation on preventing and combating harmful practices against women and girls in the course of 2024. The Recommendation will identify actions that Member States could take on the ground to tackle harmful practices such as female genital mutilation, forced sterilisation, forced abortion and early and forced marriage.

“Throughout the years, the Commission has funded projects and organisations promoting gender equality and tackling gender-based violence through the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme. All projects funded under the CERV programme are expected to take into account gender equality and non-discrimination in their design. Currently, two calls for proposals of a combined total of up to €35 million are open for submission to prevent gender-based violence and support victims, and to address the causes of the gender care gap and implement the Pay Transparency Directive.

“There was also progress in the EU external action. Advancing women’s equal participation and leadership is one of the priorities of the Gender Action Plan III for EU external action. Increasing the voice and leadership of young women in policy and decision-making is also a priority of the first-ever Youth Action Plan in EU external action. One of its flagships, the Women and Youth in Democracy Initiative is focused on strengthening the rights, empowerment, and participation in public and political life of youth and women as key actors of development and change. On March 14th the €11.5 million Women’s Political Participation component will be launched in the framework of the Commission of the Status of Women in New York.

“In November 2023, the Commission and The High Representative have issued the Joint Mid-term Report on the Implementation of the EU Gender Action Plan, focussed on the results of EU external action for gender equality and women’s and girls’ empowerment. Since the adoption of the GAP III three years ago, major new EU initiatives and programmes have been launched at global, regional and national level, including several Team Europe Initiatives supporting women and girls’ empowerment from sexual and reproductive health and rights to equal access to quality education, to access to finance for young female entrepreneurs.
In 2021, the EU renewed its commitment to the 2021-2025 roadmap of the ‘Call to Action on Protection from Gender-Based Violence in Emergencies’ launched in 2013. This is a global initiative to implement structural changes in the humanitarian system to address Gender-based Violence.”

IWD: EU Decries Low Women Representation in Politics

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National News

FG Declares Wednesday Holiday to Mark Worker’s Day

Published

6 days ago

April 30, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

FG Declares Wednesday Holiday to Mark Worker’s Day

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, 1st May, 2024 as a Public Holiday to commemorate this year’s Workers’ Day Celebration.

The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, reiterated the need for excellence, efficiency and equity in all spheres of labour, re-affirming President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation, productivity, and inclusivity in the workplace.

Tunji-Ojo, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Aishetu Gogo Ndayako, said: “In alignment with this year’s theme, which focuses on ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate, I wish to state that the Federal Government remains steadfast in its resolve to prioritise the safety and well-being of all citizens. Let me reaffirm Mr. President’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for work, where every worker can thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development”.

The Minister, while acknowledging the contribution of workers, called for proactive measures to mitigate adverse effects of climate change through synergy in in the implementation of sustainable practices and policies that promote well-being in the workplace and in building a nation guided by the principles of integrity, diligence and compassion.

Tunji-Ojo also urged Nigerians to remain committed to the present administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda as he wishes workers a happy celebration.

FG Declares Wednesday Holiday to Mark Worker’s Day

National News

Our Youths Will Transition Nigeria Into Digital Economy Powerhouse – President Tinubu

Published

6 days ago

April 30, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Our Youths Will Transition Nigeria Into Digital Economy Powerhouse – President Tinubu

As African countries commit to greater financing, digital access at IDA21 Summit:
Resolve to mobilise domestic resources for Africa’s economic transformation

By: Our Reporter

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared on Monday that Nigeria is set to harness the potential of its youthful population to transform into a global digital economy powerhouse.

He also hinted at the nation’s plans to become a global hub for outsourcing talent within the digital and creative economy.

This was the submission made by President Tinubu who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the meeting of African Heads of State and Government on the 21st Replenishment of the International Development Association (IDA21) in Nairobi.

This is just as African Heads of State and Government committed countries on the continent to strengthen implementation capacities, mobilising domestic resources, and partnering effectively with IDA to accelerate the continent’s economic transformation.

President Tinubu also reiterated Nigeria’s plans to build a vast digital market capable of absorbing cutting-edge innovations and technologies, positioning the country as a hub for outsourcing talent in the digital and creative economy spheres.

“Being a young country with a median age of about 18, our interventions in the digital economy have been so extensive that we are no longer boasting of having the most unicorns, but preparing to serve as a global hub for outsourcing talents,” the President stated in his submission titled “The Path to Recovery: Nigeria’s Journey Beyond Sabotage”, which was delivered to the Summit by VP Shettima

President Tinubu informed other African leaders of the sweeping reforms implemented by his administration to curb illicit activities and currency manipulation that had long hindered the nation’s progress.

“Since assuming office, President Tinubu has remained steadfast in fulfilling his promise to end the reign of economic saboteurs who have long exploited and hindered the progress of our nation. I am pleased to report that our economy has escaped the phase of sabotage,” the VP noted.

Alongside the digital transformation agenda, President Tinubu said Nigeria is committed to prioritizing climate resilience and becoming an attractive destination for carbon market investments.

“The tensions resulting from climate-induced disruptions serve as a pressing call to action. The profound impact of climate change on our continent’s security underscores our dedication to transforming innovative concepts from conference discussions into tangible actions. We aim to become an investment-friendly destination for carbon market investments,” the organ was informed.

He expressed Nigeria’s belief that the summit’s communiqué would reflect the collective needs of African and IDA countries, capturing their “nuances, consensus, dreams, and projections.”

President Tinubu listed key priorities for Nigeria’s economic recovery in his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, anchored on poverty alleviation, to include economic expansion, job creation, enhanced access to capital, food security, and inclusivity.

He also stressed the importance of regional economic integration through instruments like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement to dismantle investment barriers and facilitate access to international markets.

“Our path to the future depends on nurturing strategic partnerships with other nations and development organizations. Therefore, we will utilize our absolute and comparative advantages to establish partnerships across borders,” the President said.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the President of Kenya, William Ruto, said the summit was urgent because it was “convened at a critical juncture facing a convergence of global crises which include escalating geopolitical tensions that challenge international unity, a deepening development and debt crisis that threatens our economic stability, and an urgent climate emergency that demands immediate and collective action for our planet’s survival.”

He gave instances of the devastating impact of severe flooding in the East African region which, according to him, has displaced thousands in Nairobi alone, and the vulnerability of the continent to extreme weather patterns, which points to the critical role of the IDA in financing Africa’s development and stability.

“This new normal demands our immediate and united action to safeguard our collective future. This underscores the critical role of IDA for Africa Summit as a cornerstone for financing for Africa. IDA has directed 75% of its total commitment which is nearly $26 billion to Africa in the last fiscal year with African countries comprising 8 of IDA’s top 10 borrowers. This support is not just financial but it’s a lifeline for development and stability,” President Ruto said.

Also speaking, the World Bank President, Ajay Banga, expressed optimism about Africa’s potential, saying “it’s very easy to feel hopeful when we’re together anywhere in Africa,” adding that you feel the infectious energy of young people.”

Banga affirmed the IDA’s commitment to accelerating progress on the continent, vowing to “move with urgency and purpose,” while making the institution more efficient and impactful.

“We stand at the crossroads of a new era of growth and prosperity for Africa,” he said.

At the end of the Summit, African Heads of State and Government adopted a joint communique committing countries on the continent to accelerate the continent’s economic transformation by strengthening implementation capacities, mobilising domestic resources, and partnering effectively with IDA.

They also called for an ambitious replenishment of the International Development Association (IDA) to support the continent’s development goals.

The Nairobi Communique described IDA as Africa’s largest source of concessional financing, outlining priorities for IDA21 to include building human capital, creating jobs, boosting energy and digital access, enhancing resilience to climate change and fragility, and promoting inclusive growth policies.

Our Youths Will Transition Nigeria Into Digital Economy Powerhouse – President Tinubu

National News

The Truth Alliance Releases “Unveiling the Truth of Boko Haram,” Audio Series of Insurgency in Northeast

Published

2 weeks ago

April 21, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

The Truth Alliance Releases “Unveiling the Truth of Boko Haram,” Audio Series of Insurgency in Northeast

By: Michael Mike

The newly formed coalition of civil society organisations called ‘The Truth Alliance’, dedicated to shedding light on the truth behind the reality of life inside and outside Boko Haram, has released a gripping three-part audio series called “Unveiling the Truth of Boko Haram” to coincide with the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the kidnapping of the Chibok Girls in Northeast, Nigeria.

According to a statement on Sunday, “Boko Haram’s presence in Nigeria has had far reaching impact on the peace and stability of the region, leading to the destruction of families and communities, leaving many people to reside in IDP camps. Each person has their own story to tell of the way they were manipulated to join and how once in, their lives, and those of their families, were destroyed as a result. Others tell the story of how they became innocent victims to Boko Haram’s destructive path.

“Through this evocative series, each story reveals the truth behind the way each were manipulated, lied to and impacted, telling others not to fall into their trap.

“Each story delves into the harrowing experiences of those affected by Boko Haram’s atrocities, including Islamic clerics seen from the perspective of those who were once involved or impacted by Boko Haram. Among the stories featured is that of Bukar Bukar, a survivor who, in 2015, fell victim to the brutality of armed assailants and now resides in an IDP camp.”

The statement said in this series Bukar Bukar revealed that following the initial attack on their village: “The northern part of our village is a bush and Boko Haram came through it to have a battle with the military until the next morning, when they arrested some of our youth. Ever since then, I said that we were not going to do any farming activity because members of Boko Haram were killed. Boko Haram are like Camels; they don’t forget things that are done to them easily. 1000 military personnel were sent to us but after a while they became a little less than 100”.

Other stories in the series will include that of Modu Mustapha, a farmer and father of seven children who escaped Boko Haram twice: Shown exclusively on the Truth Alliance’s YouTube channel and across various social media platforms, audiences worldwide are invited to bear witness to the untold truths of life inside and outside Boko Haram in Nigeria.

According to the statement, The Truth Alliance is committed to unmasking the truth behind violent and extremist groups and empowering communities to resist tyranny and violence. Through education, outreach, and collaboration, the Truth Alliance strives to build a safer, more resilient society for all.

In a campaign tagged ‘Time to Tell the Truth’, the Truth Alliance has come together to expose the truth behind how violent extremist groups draw young people into their ranks. Their message is simple: These groups manipulate, they deceive, they control, they kill, they kidnap, they destroy, and their movement as well as ideology is inherently weak.

The Truth Alliance Releases “Unveiling the Truth of Boko Haram,” Audio Series of Insurgency in Northeast