The first Women's Parliamentary Caucus in Jersey has been hailed a 'resounding success' in unity and support.
This week, women interested in standing in the June general election, as well as current and past women States Members, attended the Caucus in the States Chamber in what has been described by guests as an 'energising and hopeful' gathering.
It has been facilitated by the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians’ Gender Strengthening Fund, and set up following other jurisdictions, as a forum to support female States Members once elected, and to encourage women into politics.
Attendees discussed cultural change, implementing flexible working in a small island context, the impact of social media - both positive and harmful - and the importance of improving women’s health through organisational change.
Deputy Lucy Stephenson, Chair of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, opened her speech referencing the progress since the election of the first female States Member, Ivy Forster, in 1948:
"Last election we had a record number of women elected and 43% of the total Assembly are women, and that's obviously positive.
"But when we look around today, we might just be about at the number of women ever, in Jersey, who've ever been elected to serve in the States Assembly.
"It's important that we do this now, just before an election, because it shows any women out there who are considering standing for election that this exists - there is a network that will exist if you are elected."
Speaking afterwards, she said:
"International Women’s Day on 8 March reminds us of the positive contribution women make in parliaments across the world, but this recognition and support must continue beyond a single day. We are excited about the impact the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus will have in the years ahead.”
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