The Nordic Countries are characterised by the participatory model of citizenship based on universalist social policies directed towards all citizens. The presence of women in political institutions has increased dramatically since the 1970s. Especially in Denmark, gender equality politics became a political goal having a profound affect on political culture. Quotas initially played a part in Denmark, later being abandoned although other Nordic countries increased participation based on women's organisation 'from below' rather than integration into political parties. Parity is a demand for a permanent right whereas quotas are understood as a transitory measure needed to integrate minority groups. Parity privileges a legal strategy and is rooted in the universalist culture, whereas quotas have been the result of legal processes and engage with participatory discourses, allowing for multi-differentiated citizenship.
The presence of women in political institutions has increased dramatically since the 1970s. Especially in Denmark, gender equality politics became a political goal having a profound affect on political culture. Quotas initially played a part in Denmark, later being abandoned although other Nordic countries increased participation based on women's organisation 'from below' rather than integration into political parties.
Parity is a demand for a permanent right whereas quotas are understood as a transitory measure needed to integrate minority groups. Parity privileges a legal strategy and is rooted in the universalist culture, whereas quotas have been the result of legal processes and engage with participatory discourses, allowing for multi-differentiated citizenship.
Must admit here that participatory and parity type stuff is totally new to my vocabulary and I don't have full grasp of the concepts just yet. I am not fully seeing the difference between parity and quotas... Ad astra per aspera
This general sentiment was created through pressure from feminist organisations that every list should have a 50-50 distribution. It was very succesfull in breaking the male dominance in most political forums.
Afaik, no Nordic country has used legislated quotas for gender distribution (if we ignore earlier legislation with 100% male representation). A vote for PES is a vote for EPP! A vote for EPP is a vote for PES! Support the coalition, vote EPP-PES in 2009!
