Women encouraged to stand for election

Women in Guernsey are being urged to consider standing for the upcoming election.

Voluntary group Women in Public Life (WiPL) said female representation in the States was at about 20%, less than half of the 43% of women in Jersey's States Assembly.

The organisation's chair, Shelaine Green, said it was "sobering" to see Guernsey sitting one place above Saudi Arabia and Turkey in terms of female representation in government.

"Without better representation, the views and life experiences of women are not being heard when crucial decisions are taken that affect everyone in the island," she said.

The organisation said Guernsey would rank 123rd place if it was included in the Inter-Parliamentary Union's monthly ranking of the percentage of women in national parliaments.

"The UK Parliament is in 26th place with 40.5%," Ms Green added.

"'If a woman stands for election she has just as much chance of success as a man.

"Guernsey simply needs more women to put themselves forward in the first place and we are working hard to encourage that."

The organisation, made up of both men and women, said it was running a free Train to Campaign programme designed to boost campaigning skills, on 23 March.

Ms Green said: "If you're a woman thinking of standing in June 2025, talk to us.

"We can help you get up to speed on current issues, understand the election process and plan your campaign.

"And give you moral support – your island needs you."

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