Malta is only EU state without female MEP

The Malta Confederation of Women's Organisations (MCWO) has expressed its disappointment that none of the women candidates fielded by Malta's political parties were elected in this round of elections for the European Parliament.

"This was not due to their lack of qualifications and capabilities of becoming MEPs but rather shows how invisible barriers still hamper women's access to the political sphere.This is because the electorate often reflects and acts on traditional gender stereotypes by choosing men who till now have been the main incumbents of the world of politics in Malta," the confederation said.

It said that Malta was the only EU state that did not manage to ensure a more balanced representation of its electorate.

"The MCWO trusts that the newly elected MEPs will not just pay lip service to their commitment towards gender equality but will prove to be real champions by putting this issue high on their agenda. This is fundamental for economic growth and social cohesion," the confederation said,