Promoting Women’s Participation in Elections was the central theme discussed at the roundtable organized by the Central Election Commission (CEC) and UN Albania.
Key topics included women’s engagement in politics, gender equality in candidate lists for parliamentary and municipal council elections, and the language used in election campaigns.
The roundtable brought together representatives from political parties, civil society, international organizations working in the field of elections, and electoral experts.
As the parliamentary elections approach, the State Election Commissioner, Mr. Ilirjan Celibashi, highlighted that the deadline for political parties and electoral coalitions to submit their multi-member lists is fast approaching. He emphasized that this will reveal the parties’ stance on gender representation—whether they will adhere to the Electoral Code quotas or go beyond them to improve representation.
He pointed out that the current situation is still far from ideal and urged political parties to take steps to enhance women’s participation in the May 11, 2025, parliamentary elections. These steps include increasing financial support for female candidates, providing them with access to party campaign funds, allocating television airtime, and other measures.
Celibashi stressed that despite legal improvements aimed at increasing women’s participation in elections, true gender equality in political representation has not yet been achieved. “The most significant issue arises after local government elections when women tend to resign one after another, only to be replaced by men on the lists. This is confirmed by statistics: 85 women have resigned from municipal councils, and in 11 political parties, all the women from the multi-member lists have withdrawn.”
Ms. Fiona McCluney, the UN Resident Coordinator in Albania, stated: *”Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5 requires more than just increasing women’s representation; it also necessitates ensuring their meaningful participation in political processes. This means removing structural barriers, providing equal access to leadership roles, and creating an enabling environment for women’s political empowerment.
Over the years, Albania has made remarkable progress in promoting women’s political participation at both the central and local levels. However, past achievements do not guarantee continued progress. Challenges remain in ensuring genuine political participation for women in Albania. Therefore, we must protect the progress made, prevent regression, and further advance gender equality. The role of political parties in promoting gender equality is crucial, especially as we approach the general elections.”*
Political party representatives discussed their strategies for increasing women’s inclusion in politics and decision-making, as well as the challenges women face in accessing media and financial resources during election campaigns.
Additionally, participants highlighted the issue of hate speech and the denigration of women on social media.
