The Group for Security and Gender Equality (SGG) is calling on all political parties in Kosovo to uphold their obligations under the Law on Gender Equality and take concrete steps to enhance the nomination, empowerment, and support of women candidates in the upcoming 2025 local elections, particularly for mayoral positions.
The SGG’s statement highlights that while the current electoral legal framework only mandates a 30% gender quota for electoral lists, parties should be guided by the spirit of the Constitution and the Law on Gender Equality to present candidate lists based on true gender parity.
The group pointed to a significant underrepresentation of women in local governance following the 2021 local elections: only 2 out of 38 elected mayors were women, and women constitute a mere 16% of municipal assembly members. This underscores persistent structural barriers to women’s leadership and participation in political decision-making. The SGG argues that this underrepresentation not only contradicts the spirit of the Constitution and the Law on Gender Equality but also represents a lost opportunity for Kosovo’s democratic and inclusive development. They emphasize that “women bring essential perspectives, leadership, and solutions to the challenges faced by municipalities – from community security to education, healthcare, and economic development.”
Beyond Minimum Requirements: Addressing Barriers
The Group for Security and Gender Equality urges political parties to go beyond minimal legal requirements and proactively nominate, promote, and empower women as local candidates. This includes addressing financial, institutional, and cultural barriers that hinder equal participation, increasing their media representation, and fostering an environment free from discrimination, harassment, or violence.
The SGG also reminded political actors of the strong commitment already made by many of them, noting that 66 MPs from the previous legislature signed the Declaration on Eliminating All Forms of Violence Against Women in Politics and Public Life. This declaration, currently being actively promoted across Kosovo, is not merely a document but a public pledge.
It reflects a shared understanding that the safety, dignity, and equal participation of women are essential for functional democratic processes – a commitment that must be upheld and respected during the upcoming local elections. The SGG concluded by stating that inclusive governance cannot be achieved without the full and equal representation of women, and they stand ready to support national and local institutions in advancing gender equality in political life and ensuring women’s voices shape the future of every community in Kosovo.
