OSCE Mission to Montenegro co-organized online regional conference of women parliamentarians

The OSCE Mission to Montenegro and the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) supported Parliament’s Gender Equality Committee in organizing an online regional conference on 14 June 2021 on the role of parliaments in advancing gender equality and women in politics.

The conference brought together more than 80 women parliamentarians from South Eastern Europe and members from OSCE missions in the region, as well as experts. Discussions focussed on gender-sensitive legislation, parliaments’ role in fighting violence against women in politics, and benefits of inter-institutional co-operation and networking.

Opening the conference, Speaker of the Montenegrin Parliament, Aleksa Bečić, emphasized that Montenegro needs to highlight good examples of women in decision-making positions. He noted that in “recognizing the importance of parliament in creating a society of equals, it amended its Rules of Procedure to provide that at least one deputy speaker be a woman,” adding his commitment for establishing, improving and implementing policies that will lead to gender equality in society.

Siv-Katrine Leirtroe, Acting Head of Mission, said that the Mission values its partnership with Parliament, the Gender Equality Committee and the newly formed Women’s MP Club. “We share the same goal: to promote gender equality standards and principles in our lives, in our institutions, and ultimately in Montenegro. The Mission is committed to supporting women’s political participation in all aspects of society.”

Božena Jelušić, Chair of the Gender Equality Committee said that women parliamentarians develop a unique strength and power for political influence, when they join hands. “Regional networking and co-operation serves to inspire us, for the benefit of all women and men in our societies,” said Jelušić.

The Mission will continue to support Parliament in aligning national legislation in accordance with the international requirements for gender equality and to assist the country towards a more just and prosperous society.