While the shadow of gender inequality lingers over Maldivian politics, the path to a more equitable future lies in adopting a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach.
PHOTOGRAPH: PSM NEWS
A study by Villa College, commissioned by the Westminster Foundation for Democracy, has revealed the alarming extent to which online violence is stifling women's participation in Maldivian politics. In a society where women already face significant cultural and societal barriers to leadership, this digital abuse acts as a further deterrent. The findings are stark: a staggering 33.3 percent of attacks involve calculated misinformation and smear campaigns, directly undermining women's credibility. Furthermore, 29.2 percent of reported incidents detail the invasive non-consensual sharing of private media, a particularly damaging tactic within a close-knit Maldivian community.
The study also highlights the disproportionate targeting of younger women aged 24-35 with sexualised harassment, body shaming, sexual threats (20.8 percent), and doxing (16.7 percent). This targeted abuse not only damages their mental well-being and professional image (both 27.8 percent) but also directly translates to a significant decline in their political engagement and a reluctance to assume leadership roles (both 29.6 percent). The fear-driven withdrawal from public discourse (25.9 percent) emphasises the chilling effect this online violence has on women's ability to contribute to the Maldivian political landscape. This data highlights the urgent need for intervention to safeguard women's participation in Maldivian politics and ensure their voices are not silenced.
Global Approaches to Increase Female Political Participation
1. Legal and Institutional Frameworks: Quota Systems
Rwanda’s new constitution in 2003 introduced a 30 percent gender quota for all elected positions in government. A gender quota significantly boosted women's political representation: parliamentary seats held by women rose from 48.8 percent in 2003 to 56 percent in 2008, and then to 67 percent in 2013. Women also won unreserved seats and held substantial positions in other government sectors, even without quotas, demonstrating the policy's success.
2. Legislative and Policy Changes:
Sweden's commitment to workplace gender equality is backed by laws against discrimination and mandates for proactive equality measures. However, a persistent 10 percent pay gap highlights the ongoing challenges, partly attributed to career impacts from women's childcare responsibilities. To counter this, Sweden provides affordable childcare and incentivises fathers' parental leave through "daddy months," resulting in fathers now taking about 30 percent of leave. Legal protections also prevent parental leave-related discrimination.
3. Public Awareness and Education Campaigns:
Spain combats gender inequality with awareness campaigns that challenge stereotypes, promote equal opportunities, and fight violence against women, especially among youth, using diverse media for lasting cultural change. These campaigns recognise that shifting deeply rooted societal norms is crucial alongside legal reforms.
4. Mentorship and Networking Programs:
Organisations like “She Should Run” (US) and “Equal Voice” (Canada) offer mentorship, training, and networking opportunities for women aspiring to political office. These programs often include workshops on campaign strategy, fundraising, and public speaking, and equipping women with the practical skills needed to navigate the political landscape. Moreover, they provide a crucial support system, connecting women with experienced mentors who can offer guidance and encouragement throughout their political journeys.
Beyond these traditional approaches, actively cultivating male champions has also proven effective, as seen in Canada, where they challenge sexist attitudes and champion women's political leadership. Similarly, many European nations have leveraged media regulations, establishing guidelines for balanced representation and prioritising programs featuring female political figures, to positively influence public perception.
Maldivian Landscape
Despite global efforts to advance gender parity, the Maldives demonstrates minimal progress. The 19th Parliament held a mere 4.6 percent female representation, and only 7 women served in President Solih's 19-member cabinet. This trend of underrepresentation persisted in recent parliamentary elections, where only 3 out of 41 female candidates secured seats, resulting in a bleak 3.2 percent representation. President Muizzu's current cabinet mirrors this imbalance, with just 2 female ministers out of 20.
While the shadow of gender inequality lingers over Maldivian politics, the path to a more equitable future lies in adopting a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. Drawing inspiration from global best practices and thoughtfully tailoring them to the Maldivian context will be crucial in empowering women's voices and fostering a truly representative democracy.
