The African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL) has recently called on their mother body, the African National Congress (ANC), to recommit to the 60-40 gender parity principle. This principle, which was adopted by the ANC in 1997, aims to ensure that at least 60% of the party’s leadership positions are held by women. The ANCWL’s call for recommitment comes at a crucial time when women’s representation in leadership roles is still far from being achieved.
In a statement released by the ANCWL, they highlighted the importance of the 60-40 gender parity principle in promoting gender equality and empowering women within the party. The ANCWL also emphasized that this principle is not just about numbers, but about creating a culture of inclusivity and equal opportunities for women within the ANC.
It is no secret that women have played a crucial role in the struggle for liberation in South Africa. From the iconic figures of Albertina Sisulu and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela to the countless women who marched to the Union Buildings in 1956, women have been at the forefront of the fight against oppression. Therefore, it is only fitting that the ANC, as the ruling party, reflects this commitment to gender equality in its leadership structures.
However, despite the ANC’s adoption of the 60-40 gender parity principle over two decades ago, progress towards achieving this goal has been slow. Currently, women make up only 42% of the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and 50% of its National Working Committee (NWC). This is a far cry from the 60% target set by the party. The ANCWL has rightly pointed out that this is not a true reflection of the party’s commitment to gender equality.
The call for recommitment to the 60-40 gender parity principle is not just about numbers, but also about ensuring that women are given equal opportunities to lead and make decisions within the party. It is about creating a culture where women are seen as equal partners and their voices are heard and valued. This is crucial in promoting a more inclusive and representative democracy.
Moreover, the ANCWL’s call for recommitment is also in line with the global movement towards achieving gender equality in all spheres of society. The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls, recognizes the importance of women’s participation in decision-making processes. By recommitting to the 60-40 gender parity principle, the ANC will not only be fulfilling its own commitment to gender equality but also contributing to the global effort towards achieving this goal.
The ANCWL has also urged the ANC to take concrete steps towards achieving the 60-40 gender parity principle. This includes actively identifying and promoting women leaders within the party, as well as ensuring that women are given equal opportunities to participate in party structures at all levels. The ANCWL has also called for the implementation of gender-sensitive policies and practices within the party.
The call for recommitment to the 60-40 gender parity principle is not just a call to the ANC, but to all political parties in South Africa. It is a reminder that women’s representation in leadership positions is crucial in promoting gender equality and building a more inclusive society. The ANCWL has set an example for other political parties to follow, and it is now up to the ANC to take the lead in achieving gender parity within its own ranks.
In conclusion, the ANCWL’s call for recommitment to the 60-40 gender parity principle is a timely reminder of the importance of women’s representation in leadership roles. It is a call for the ANC to live up to its commitment to gender equality and to create a more inclusive and representative democracy. By recommitting to this principle, the ANC will not only be fulfilling its own promises but also contributing to the global movement towards achieving gender equality. Let us all support the ANCWL in their call and work towards a more equal and just society for all.
