Gender Quotas Discussion Paper

There are three types of quotas that are distinguishable based on the stage of an election which they target. First, voluntary political party quotas target the aspirants-"those willingly [sic] to be considered for nomination."1 This type of quota is voluntary and not statutorily established. The second type of quota targets the nomination phase of the election process where a percentage of those nominated must be women.2 Most quota systems fit in this category.3 Lastly, quotas can target the elected phase requiring a percentage or number of those elected to be women.4 As requested, this memorandum will address the statutory options for improving gender equality in elections; therefore it will focus on the last two quota types