VERDALA, 17 September 2025 – The 2025 Annual Conference of the Gender Equality Commission of the Council of Europe, entitled “Tackling Sexism and Violence Against Women: An Essential Step Towards Equal Participation”, was held in Malta under the auspices of the Maltese Presidency of the Council of Europe.
The Conference brought together over 100 delegates from across Europe to address the persistent challenges faced by women politicians within political parties and institutions, both online and offline. Discussions focused on removing structural and cultural barriers that hinder women’s full participation in public and political life.
Opening the event, Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms, Hon. Rebecca Buttigieg, underscored the importance of combating gender stereotypes through concrete and sustained action. Sharing personal experiences from her own political career, she noted that such challenges are not isolated incidents but reflect a broader reality for women in politics globally. In reaffirming Malta’s commitment to advancing equality and countering harmful stereotypes, she also highlighted several strategies already undertaken by the government in this area, including the gender-quota mechanism at Parliament.
Keynote addresses were delivered by Council of Europe Deputy Secretary General Bjorn Berge and Dr. Helena Dalli, former European Commissioner for Equality.
In his remarks, Deputy Secretary General Berge highlighted the urgent need to address emerging forms of online violence and abuse. “We cannot say that we have true democracy if half the population does not experience equal access to the public life, experience violence or is effectively silenced”, he added.
The Conference also featured a series of panel discussions and workshops that brought together local and international experts, politicians, and civil society representatives to exchange good practices and strengthen collective efforts to promote gender equality in political and public life.
On the eve of the Conference, an exhibition titled “Leħinha. Her Voice.” was inaugurated at the Parliament of Malta by Speaker of the House, Hon. Anġlu Farrugia, together with Hon. Rebecca Buttigieg. It celebrates the achievements and contributions of women in Maltese politics over the years.
“This exhibition is a testament to resilience, progress, and strength in participation” said Hon. Buttigieg. “It shows how Maltese women rowed against the current and overcame every obstacle because they believed that yes, even a woman has the right to be in public life and to serve the people through politics.”