“Representation matters, not only for political balance, but because it ensures that the unique health, economic and social needs of our communities are addressed in meaningful ways.”

The Progressive Labour Party is proud to have nominated a record number of women in this election — the highest in Bermuda’s history. It is significant to have a record number of women candidates but, beyond that, our country’s leaders in politics must embody the values that we stand for as a country by ensuring that policies are made with guidance from diverse voices, including both men and women, to reflect the unique needs of our communities.

From advancing women’s healthcare to strengthening protections against domestic violence, expanding economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs and ensuring access to affordable housing — particularly for those seeking safety from abusive situations — we believe that women’s voices must guide the conversation on policy and implementation.

With strong representation, we are building a Bermuda where every woman has the opportunity to thrive. But we are not there yet. Until we achieve true gender parity — where at least 50 per cent of candidates in all parties are women of varying ages, socioe-conomic backgrounds, sexual orientation and family structures — our work is not done.

Representation matters, not only for political balance but because it ensures that the unique health, economic and social needs of our communities are addressed in transformative ways.

The United Nations recommends encouraging greater involvement of women who may be marginalised — including indigenous women, women with disabilities, women from rural areas and women of any ethnic, cultural or religious minority — in decision-making at all levels, and addressing and countering the barriers faced by them in accessing and participating in politics (UN Women, 2025).

Women, especially Black women in Bermuda, are among the most educated and hard-working members of our society. They contribute significantly to the island’s workforce, yet their leadership remains underrepresented at the highest levels of decision-making. This must change.

True progress means recognising that the fight for gender equality is ongoing and that we must continue to fight and work for equity in society. The UN also recommends strongly encouraging political parties to remove all barriers that directly or indirectly discriminate against the participation of women, to develop their capacity to analyse issues from a gender perspective and to adopt policies, as appropriate, to promote the ability of women to participate fully at all levels of decision-making within those political parties (UN Women, 2025).

We must also expand the conversation to include others who are on the margins of society — those who need support and a voice in our community and society. We must not only celebrate the achievements of women but actively work to ensure that they are given the space, resources and opportunities to lead.

The next generation is watching and it is our responsibility to create a Bermuda where every young girl knows that she has an equal chance to lead, shape policy and build a brighter future for us all.

References:

UN Women. (2025, 01 22). Global norms and standards: Leadership and political participation. unwomen.org. https://www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/leadership-and-political-participation/global-norms-and-standards

• Joanne Ball-Burgess is the Progressive Labour Party candidate for Warwick North East (Constituency 25)

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