Special Coordinator Kaag speaks of importance of women's quota in elections

UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Sigrid Kaag stressed the importance of holding timely parliamentary elections in Lebanon and increased representation of women in politics. Ms. Kaag was speaking at a meeting with the press at UNSCOL. "The international community, also the UN and Security Council, have underlined the importance of timely elections within the constitutional timeframe," Ms. Kaag said. "I would like to make one particular plea again to ensure that there is a quota for women. … Lebanon lags behind significantly within the region when it comes to representation of women in Parliament and all levels of decision-making." According to Ms. Kaag, "Gender and women's issues are national issues, given the fact that women in any country represent 50 percent of the population. It is not a sector, it is a very important feature we need to all push and promote.”