The Minister of Gender, Family and Social Services Shidhatha Shareef said that a quota has to be assigned for women’s position in Parliament.

The Minister spoke at a “Rajje TV” program “Fala Surukhee” and said that there are a higher number of women who acquire a higher education than men in Maldives. She said that that there are a proportionally higher number of women in the biggest workforce of Maldives - the civil service. She further noted however that there are fewer women present when it comes to positions of decision-making.

She said that the situation is as such, not due to lack of capable women or lack of equal opportunity. She said that the progress is hindered due to the path for progress when it comes to women, not being expanded.

Minister Shidhatha highlighted the role of women in politics. She noted as such, that women’s participation and contributions in politics. She said however that the amount of women who reach the arena of campaigning or face various positions are proportionately lower. Minister noted that while the seats of constituencies in Parliament were increased, there are still currently only five members at Parliament that are women. She said that it currently appears that even a fewer number of women can be expected at Parliament at this time. Therefore a quota should be assigned for women’s position in Parliament stated the Minister.