In this blog Girlguiding Advocate Staci (20) shares her thoughts on the significance of 40% of MPs now being women and why we need a gender equal parliament.
In 2024, 40% of elected MPs were women. This was a significant step towards a 50:50 Parliament, reflecting decades of advocacy, cultural change, and the tireless efforts of women in politics. I am encouraged by this new cohort of women MPs, symbolising a step towards a more inclusive and compassionate political agenda.
Despite this progress and my enthusiasm, I believe that the UK Parliament should better reflect its population and the diversity of the society it serves. In the UK, women make up 50% of the population and face chronic underrepresentation in Parliament and politics more generally. It is crucial to achieve gender equality in Parliament, not only for the sake of fairness, but also to ensure diverse lived experiences and perspectives are able to shape our policy. If women occupied at least 50% of seats in the House of Commons, issues that disproportionately affect women and girls could be addressed with the urgency and nuance deserved.
Research shows that involving women in decision making means policies are more inclusive, equitable, and reflective of the needs of the wider population. Women MPs have been key advocates for critical issues like childcare, domestic violence, reproductive rights, and workplace equality – these are all areas that would receive insufficient attention if not for women MPs. Gender balance in Parliament also normalises women in leadership roles and breaks down stereotypes about the role of a women in today’s society, sending powerful messages to girls and young women that they can (and should) also aspire to lead and create change. Empowering young women is critical in a world where structural barriers and cultural biases will discourage them from entering politics.
However, it is not enough to stop at 40% of elected MPs being women. Representation also has to include historically marginalised groups, such as women of colour, LGBTQ+ women, and disabled women, ensuring all voices are heard in our democratic processes. Without this, Parliament risks perpetuating systemic inequalities.
To achieve a 50% gender balance in Parliament, it is vital to encourage young women to consider careers in politics. Engaging young women in political processes builds a pipeline of future leaders who are willing to challenge the status quo and push for the change they would like to see. Young women provide fresh perspectives on generational challenges such as climate action, digital rights, and mental health. Young people are uniquely positioned to deal with the issues shaping our future society.
Achieving a gender equal Parliament is not just a symbolic goal, it is necessary for a fairer, and more inclusive society. By reaching 50% representation in Parliament, and actively encouraging young women to engage in politics, we can ensure that our democracy works for everyone. This milestone is a sign of progress, but we should use it as a springboard for further change, creating a political culture where every girl and woman feels represented, empowered, and heard. By championing gender equality and empowering the next generation of women to lead, we can transform Parliament into a space that truly reflects and serves the diversity of the UK.