Geneva: Member of the Azerbaijani Parliament and Vice-President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Sevil Mikayilova, delivered a significant report on gender equality in global parliaments during the 149th Assembly of the IPU. In her presentation, Mikayilova emphasized the increasing participation of women in these assemblies, although noting that figures still fall short of previous highs.

According to Trend News Agency, Sevil Mikayilova, who also serves on the IPU Executive Committee, highlighted recent improvements and ongoing challenges in gender balance within parliamentary delegations worldwide. Speaking at the 38th Forum of Women Parliamentarians, Mikayilova noted that 36.4% of the delegates at the current assembly are women. This represents an increase compared to previous assemblies, yet it remains below the peak of 39% observed at assemblies in Nusa Dua in 2022 and Madrid in 2021.

Mikayilova proudly pointed out that the current assembly is witnessing a historically low number of all-male dele
gations, along with a record high in delegations achieving gender balance. “Among the delegations announced to include at least two members, only 5 are expected to be all-male, and 2 all-female. This is the lowest number ever of single-sex delegations of two or more members, if we look at the past 10 Assemblies,” she stated.

Furthermore, Mikayilova brought attention to the upcoming COP29 conference to be hosted in Baku, Azerbaijan. She expressed enthusiasm about the international event, which will focus on addressing global climate change challenges. The opening ceremony of the IPU Assembly also featured remarks from IPU Secretary-General Martin Chungong and President Tulia Ackson, setting a collaborative tone for the discussions.