Malta’s Democracy: Failing Women by Design

In the heart of Valletta, Malta’s capital city, stands the Grandmaster’s Palace, a symbol of power and history. Yet, within its walls, a stark reality unfolds: only 16% of the members in Malta’s House of Representatives are women. This isn’t a mere oversight; it’s a systemic failure that’s pushing Malta’s democracy to the brink of gender inequality.

Malta’s Disappointing Gender Balance

Malta, often praised for its progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights and women’s reproductive rights, lags behind when it comes to women’s political representation. With just 16 women in the 67-member House, Malta ranks 28th out of 33 European countries in terms of women’s political participation, according to the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

This isn’t a new phenomenon. Since Malta gained independence in 1964, women have consistently been underrepresented in politics. The 2022 election saw a slight improvement from the previous 12%, but it’s a far cry from the 30% target set by the Council of Europe.

Barriers to Women’s Political Participation

So, what’s holding Malta back? A mix of cultural, political, and institutional barriers are at play.

• Cultural norms: Traditional gender roles still persist in Maltese society, with women often expected to prioritise family and home over career. This can deter women from entering politics.
• Political party culture: Maltese political parties, dominated by men, often lack diversity and inclusivity. Women may struggle to rise through the ranks or gain party support for their candidacies.
• Funding and resources: Political campaigns require significant funding. Women, who often earn less than men, may find it harder to access these resources or afford to run for office.

Malta’s first-past-the-post electoral system favours established parties and candidates, making it challenging for new faces, including women, to break through.

Initiatives Aimed at Balancing the Scales

Recognising the need for change, several initiatives are underway. The Women’s Rights Foundation, for instance, is advocating for gender quotas and better representation of women in politics. The National Commission for the Promotion of Equality is working to challenge stereotypes and promote women’s empowerment.

Political parties are also taking steps. The Labour Party, currently in government, has committed to increasing women’s representation. The Nationalist Party, meanwhile, has implemented a gender balance policy for its candidate selection process.

Yet, these efforts are slow and piecemeal. Without bold, systemic changes, Malta’s democracy will continue to fail women by design.

Malta’s women deserve better. They deserve a parliament that reflects their voices, their experiences, and their aspirations. They deserve a democracy that works for everyone, not just half of the population.

So, what can you do? Support women in politics. Encourage them, vote for them, and hold political parties accountable for their promises. Let’s push for a Malta where every woman has an equal say in shaping our country’s future.