Celebrating Women’s Progress in the European Parliament

Since its inception in 1952, the European Parliament had only 31 women members until the first elections in 1979. Among them were notable figures like Maria Probst and Diane Elles, who later became presidents of the European Union of Women (EUW). In 1979, women made up 15.9% of the Parliament, and as of February 2024, this has risen to 39.8%.

We as EUW are proud see strong women leaders like Gisela Grabow in Germany and Sarka Slaviková Klimová in the Czech Republic in running in the upcoming elections. We also support Rozália Biro, President of the EPP Women, in her candidacy for the mayoralty in her home town Oradea in Romania. Our best wishes go to these women and all others who are dedicated to making a difference in politics today.

But sending good wishes is not enough. Women have the opportunity to achieve equal representation in the next European Parliament. We must vote and encourage others to do the same. Participation in the democratic process is a core value of the European Union of Women.

While some of us are affected by Brexit and cannot vote, we urge everyone to make a special effort in the upcoming elections. Encourage everyone—women, men, and especially the young voters who are eligible to vote for the first time in countries like Germany, Austria, Belgium, Malta, and Greece. Democracy thrives when we all participate.
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Thank you for your efforts.

​Photo credits: European Parliament