Ombudsman urges equal gender representation in election process

In this case, given preliminary elections, the ombudsman returns the attention of the general public and competent authorities for equal opportunities for participation of both genders, in all segments of the election process, considering gender equality as the fundamental value for democratic development of society.

The public's “Avokat reminds political subjects that Law No. 05L-020 for Gender Equality, his 14th article, respectively, specifically says: Political parties with their acts are obliged to implement measures to promote equal participation of male and female bodies and party bodies, in accordance with provisions of Article 6 of this law.”. Article 6, paragraph 7, of this law, among other things, specifys: “Ogans legislative, executive and judicial at all levels, as well as other public institutions, are obliged to adopt and implement specific measures to achieve the representation of the least represented gender, until the arrival of equal representation of women and males under this law puts the statement.

Recalling also paragraph 8 of this law, the Ombudsman says that “equal gender representation in all legislative, executive and judicial organs and other public institutions is achieved when a minimum representation of 50% for each gender, including their leading and decision-making organs”.

In the face of hesitation over the priority of implementing norms, the ombudsman points out aloud that the Law provisions No. 05L-020 for Gender Equality have priority over the provisions of Law No. 03-L-073 for the General Elections, talking about gender representation.

The ombudsman expects political subjects participating in this election process, as he expects from the Central Election Commission (KQZ), to respect the principle of equality in the entire election process, with particular emphasis on equal representation on electoral lists, in accordance with the provisions of Law No. 05L-020 for gender equality and compatibility with the spirit which the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo conveys.

“Granitation of equal opportunities and without gender-based discrimination not only is necessary for a democratic society, but it is the constitutional and legal definition that must be implemented by all, including political parties”, the ombudsman's statement concludes.