Women in politics

As part of the solution, Volt wanted to offer women a platform. Together with Volt France, Volt Belgium and Volt Switzerland, we gave women a voice.

Public spaces are places for interaction, encounters and the co-construction of society. As such, they must be representative, diverse and safe.

For several years, my life followed a routine of kids, work and bed. Then my kids became teenagers. And then there were the municipal elections. And the Parity Act [in France]. So I raised my hand, to find out what we were doing with my taxes and also to propose actions for our young people. So I got into politics because of or thanks to the Parity Act. And I haven't been disappointed! Since then, I haven't stopped getting involved in politics, according to my abilities and aspirations. One thing is certain for me now: I no longer want to leave it to others to decide my future, or that of my children. – Anne G.

In Luxembourg, only 21 of 60 (35%) members of the Chamber are women. There are 16 female mayors in 102 municipalities (15.6%). And only 37 of the 225 alderman mandates (16.4%) are held by women.

I have been involved in Volt since I was 18, and I was able to move up from my local branch in Toulouse to the national office, and stand as a candidate in three elections. This experience gave me confidence and a better understanding of politics, including its less attractive aspects such as the lack of women involved. I think that every party must act for gender equality internally, beyond political discourse. – Élise M.

History is full of talented women who dared to do things and showed the way. Today, too many women do not get involved or dare not get involved in politics.

Having become involved in politics late in life, the trigger was ‘what kind of world will I leave to my grandchildren?’ Volt's main objective is medium- or long-term and corresponds well to their adult life span. But it still needs to be worked on now. In my opinion, my motivation is marked by femininity ... It has to do with transmission to humans, starting with the protection of my own family, other than by a purely financial inheritance, which remains a rather more masculine commitment, in general, of course. – Christine G.

Apprehensions, lack of moral, financial and logistical support, psychological or educational barriers are all reasons why women still withdraw today, even though they have the desire and the skills to participate actively in the political life of their country.

Being a woman in politics means sharing responsibility for our common destiny. Why should it be a problem to be a woman in politics? There is no reason why it should be. Freedom means participation! – Anne Ch.

In our daily lives, we see both women and men encouraging, advising, debating, innovating, reflecting, proposing, organising, using diplomacy and self-control on a daily basis. Having a sense of commitment, listening, being a team player, being strategic, or even resilience, honesty, eloquence, etc. are human qualities and are not related to gender.

Getting involved in politics is difficult, but essential, especially when you are under-represented and have little say in the matter. I chose Volt because this party embodies my values, but also because it truly applies parity and shared leadership. Here, equality is not just a promise, it is a reality built every day. – Valérie C.

There are still many barriers to women's participation in politics, and we are clear-sighted about the battles that remain to be fought. But on this 8th of March 2025, we all want to say together: women have their place in the discussions and the co-construction of our society.

I got involved in politics so that women would be represented, visible and listened to. I'm fed up with this pseudo-parity where politicians speak on behalf of all citizens, including female citizens. I have also joined a European party to ‘duplicate’ parity practices at the European level or in other European countries if they are relevant in the French context. – Christine P. 

We want to send a strong message and a call to action:

We encourage all women to get involved in politics, whatever the nature and degree of that involvement, and we encourage those around them to help them on their journey and support them in their actions!

We call on all political parties to put in place measures to include more women and make it easier for them to get involved!

My political commitment came quite naturally to complement my involvement in associations at the time of the legislative elections of June 2024 because I wanted to work to see the realisation of what I believe in: a federal Europe. I am not committing myself as a woman, but as an individual who has convictions, projects, skills and a lot to learn, just like everyone else. You shouldn't be afraid of the difficulties along the way, you just need to surround yourself with caring people who have the same aspirations for our society. I found a space at Volt that makes room for women, and gives them the support and resources they need to fully develop and flourish in politics. I am committed to strengthening this dynamic because I believe that it is together, and not against each other, that we can truly move forward. – Elisa C.

We started by strengthening parity in the public arena: electoral lists, round tables, media, etc. It is time to take a step further, by creating real spaces for inclusion, expression and projects for women (within parties, in decision-making bodies, etc.), subsidies dedicated to projects by and for women, as well as enhanced external communication. Women need to be present more generally and systematically on the political scene.

I got involved in politics at Volt because I felt that we were in danger of losing Europe, which is the only political organisation that offers hope for me. National politics has had its day; there is nothing new to be expected from it. I don't feel that I have made a commitment as a woman but rather as a person to participate in the perpetuation of Europe, so much the better if I actually participate in the advancement of parity in political life. – Nadine L.

It is high time that our public policies were made by and for all our fellow citizens.

My political commitment was obvious. The fact that I am a woman did not even cross my mind. I was a member of society and if I did not want to regret that it did not represent me, it was up to me to act. Because it is democracy and Europe that I choose after all. Women, daughters, mothers, citizens, let us take and defend our place in the political future. – Marianne R-K.