OUR ORGANISATIONS
The Equal Representation Coalition brings together organisations working to achieve greater diversity at all levels of politics and public life in Scotland. The Coalition currently includes Engender, Inclusion Scotland, CEMVO, Stonewall Scotland, The Young Women’s Movement, Elect Her, Women 50:50, Equality Network and BEMIS.
OUR VISION
We have a vision for a Scotland where our elected representatives truly reflect the diversity of the Scottish population – improving democracy, increasing engagement in public life, enriching policy decisions, therefore bringing benefits to all.
OUR ASKS & BACKGROUND
In recognition of the critical role that political parties have to play in bringing about change, in 2016 we drew up a set of asks for political parties:
- Commit to the vision for meaningful representation as set out by equalities organisations.
- Audit the diversity of party members, activists, staff, candidates and elected representatives at all levels, creating a benchmark against which to monitor change.
- Set targets, and/or quotas where applicable, where there is under-representation, taking account of intersectionality and individuals’ multiple identities, and implement actions to meet any targets set.
- Audit and address barriers to participation in all party activities, including but not limited to, standing in elections.
- Commit to support and work with organisations and campaigns working to increase the participation of under-represented groups.
At this time the SNP, Scottish Labour, Scottish Conservatives, Scottish Green Party and Scottish Liberal Democrats all voiced support for the vision and while we have seen some of our asks put into action, we know that there is still much more that needs to be done.
