A new poll suggests that girls and young women are shying away from the political arena.
- Writer, Emma MacIsaac
As a desire for diversity in Canadian governments grows, Plan International Canada has shared the results of a survey sparking concerns. The survey revealed that only 12% of girls and young women expressed an interest in becoming an elected representative, and only 9% aspire to one day become Prime Minister.
Lindsay Glassco, CEO of Plan International Canada, believes that gender-based discrimination within the political field impacts women well before they become adults. She states, “It is up to all of us to break down the barriers that prevent girls from engaging in political discourse, and it needs to start well before girls reach voting age. A lack of female representation within Canada’s government challenges the issue further. The significant disparity between the number of men and women in Canadian politics makes it harder for young women and girls to see themselves reflected in their leaders.”
For years, women within political circles have been challenged by the sexism that riddles the field and can make it an unwelcoming environment. This sexism extends so far that Plan Canada reveals that one-third (of women) say they don’t believe politics is open to young women’s engagement or participation. Female politicians are often the targets of harassment and are judged more harshly than their male counterparts. This can be discouraging for many women and girls who are considering a career in politics.
The dissatisfaction is further fueled by women who “feel poorly represented by the politicians elected to serve them, yet the vast majority (97% globally and 96% in Canada) believe that participating in politics is important. Plan Canada draws attention to the fact that issues that women care about are often brushed aside or ignored entirely which likely contributes to the lack of self-confidence that prevents many women from entering the field.
The concern regarding this confidence extends far beyond potential political candidates. According to the poll almost 40% of girls and young women in Canada do not feel confident speaking in front of their peers about a social, political, or economic issue with almost half the women in Canada uncomfortable discussing politics with their peers, it’s no wonder there is a shortage of female politicians. Glassco says “While there is no doubt that we have made progress over the past decade, these findings are a reminder that we still have much work to do to support girls as they claim their political leadership and power.”
You can join the conversation by using #EqualPowerNow and #DayOfTheGirl. More information can be found on plancanada.ca or on social media @PlanCanada.
Have your say: Vote on October 24th.
