Domain 2 – Gender equality in external communication and representation

This domain assesses gender equality in external communication, including the visibility of gender issues and the representation of the parliament. 

What and how parliaments communicate externally has a direct link to democratic processes and the symbolic role of parliament in a country. Official communication in gender-sensitive parliaments is free of gendered stereotypes - at both linguistic and content level - and the visibility of gender issues throughout parliamentary activity contributes to raising awareness of these issues among broader society.

The language used in parliaments should reflect the principle of gender equality and non-discrimination on gender grounds (European Parliament: 2018). For example, press releases and website communications should adopt gender-sensitive language, with formal guidelines and rules developed to support its use.

Gender-sensitive parliaments increase the visibility of gender equality concerns through their communication channels and by showcasing their gender equality activities and outcomes (IPU: 2012). Gender parity of the composition of parliamentary delegations is always ensured.