The Equal Representation Charter has been designed by the Equal Representation Coalition – a network made up of various third sector organisations working towards more inclusive and stronger representation in Scottish politics. 

The charter formulates the 10 most key commitments at the highest level of political decision-making in Scotland to achieving this goal including: securing equal representation, equal access, a zero-tolerance culture, inclusive debate, action against misogyny and discrimination, and accountability mechanisms. 

This project is aimed at securing support from stakeholders across the Scottish Parliament ecosystem such as party leaders, MSPs, Scottish Government and the Scottish Parliament Corporate Body. 

By signing this charter, individuals and organisations pledge to support the delivery of the 10 points below, within their given remits.

By signing up to the Equal Representation Charter, we pledge to the following points

• We commit to building and resourcing support, networks and pathways into politics

  With the goal of levelling informal access and strengthening participation of underrepresented groups in politics and parliament.

• We commit to creating a safe political environment

  With the goal of enforcing a zero-tolerance culture of abuse, bullying and harassment.

• We commit to high-quality, ongoing equality and inclusion training

  With the goal of implementing continuous learning that is embedded into our systems of working.

• We commit to sustained use of positive action measures, such as quotas

  With the goal of consistency across election cycles and protection progress from rollback.

• We commit to fair, transparent, standardised candidate selection processes

  With the goal of delivering accessible information and equitable opportunities.

• We commit to collecting and publishing diversity data to drive accountability

  With the goal of increasing transparency and enabling evidence-based change.

• We commit to embedding accountability

  With the goal of turning commitments into enforceable standards, including clear consequences for misconduct and leadership responsibility.

• We commit to increasing public trust and transparency of the Scottish Parliament

  With the goal of removing systemic barriers, and improving retention and participation of MSPs.

• We commit to actively monitoring the progress and implementation of this charter

  With the goal of embedding ongoing accountability and meaningful delivery.

• We commit to supporting and implementing Inclusion Scotland’s Access to Politics Charter

  With the goal of ensuring disability inclusion is embedded within these commitments.