Local elections 2023: between perceptions and realities – Analysis of local elections in the Republic of Moldova from a gender equality perspective

On November 5, 2023, general local elections were held in the Republic of Moldova in all administrative-territorial units of the first level – cities (municipalities), villages (communes) and of the second level – districts, the municipalities of Chisinau and Balti, except for the localities on the left bank of the Dniester. During this election, representatives of the local public administration were elected for a four-year term: 896 mayors and 11,058 local councillors within district, municipal, city, communal and village councils.

This report provides a detailed assessment of women’s participation and representation in the general local elections of November 2023. It analyses voters’ perceptions of women’s involvement in political life and the under-representation of groups in decision-making positions. It also examines voter engagement in electoral campaigns and the impact of the double quota system on gender representation in local and district councils. Key findings include:

1. Shadowed women mayors: While there is a significant presence of women in the position of mayor, many of them do not benefit from appropriate recognition and visibility.

2. Gender representation among candidates: The analysis of mayoral candidacies and elected officials at local and district levels highlights progress, but also challenges in achieving gender-balanced representation.

3. Gender representation in the media: The study highlights the importance of the media in promoting a balanced image of women and men in politics.

4. The double quota system: The implementation of this system has had a positive impact on gender representation, but there are still deviations and the need to strengthen monitoring and sanctioning mechanisms.

5. Financing electoral campaigns: The analysis of candidates’ sources of income and campaign financing highlights the influence of financial resources on electoral success.

The report provides recommendations for improving women’s participation and representation in local politics, including by strengthening political education, promoting a favourable environment and ensuring financial transparency in electoral campaigns.

Source: Partnership for Development Centre, Civic Coalition for Free and Fair Elections, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, IM Swedish Development Partner Lund Moldova Branch, UN Women and UNDP, 2024

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