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, Jo Cox Foundation, The Young Women’s Movement, Elect Her, Women 50:50, Equality Network and Centenary Action. During the creation of the Toolkit, we were additionally supported by representatives of Stonewall Scotland 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 2026, we designed the Equal Representation Charter. This Charter outlines 10 essential commitments for achieving more equal and diverse representation and participation at the highest level of democracy in Scotland. Its key themes include promoting equal access, introducing a zero-tolerance culture on abuse and harassment, fostering inclusive debate, action against misogyny and discrimination, and ensuring accountability. The Charter seeks support from stakeholders across the Scottish Parliament ecosystem such as party leaders, MSPs, Scottish Government and the Scottish Parliament Corporate Body.  

View the Equal Representation Charter

Our wider work has started over a decade ago: 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.

Political parties can fulfil their commitment to our asks and support our vision is by  

1. Signing the Equal Representation Charter 

2. Using the Equal Representation Toolkit.