Under 50 female politicians in over half a century

Sunday 05 August 2018

Only 44 women have been elected to the States Assembly in 70 years, research has shown.

On 12 July 1919, the States Assembly held a special sitting and granted rates-paying women over the age of 30 the right to vote.

As the island approaches the centennial year, campaign group Women in Politics has been working with the States Greffe to find out more about how women have been politically represented over the years.

In a series of centenary celebrations, they aim to shine a light on women’s struggle for equal representation and their involvement in politics as well as the little-known story of how women achieved the right to vote in Jersey, and subsequently the right to stand for election. 

In doing that research, they discovered that, while the island had a record number of women standing for election this year, the number over 70 years left much to be desired.

Since 1948, fewer than 50 women have been elected to the States Assembly. "It's not even a full Assembly," Deputy Louise Doublet commented. "I find that figure shocking!"

Pictured: Deputy Louise Doublet described the number of women to have ever been elected as politicians as "shocking."

Little-known facts and figures such as this one will be featured in an exhibition to bring them to the attention of the public. Visitors will also get to learn more about Christabel Pankhurst's stay in Jersey. "Not many people know that she came to Jersey to hold a large meeting," Deputy Doublet explained.

But the exhibition will only be one event out a whole programme. WIP are hoping to hold a commemorative march, an evening event with prominent women as well as film screenings. They are also inviting local organisations, charities and businesses who might have celebrations planned to contact them.

Deputy Doublet explained: "We would like to invite organisations and individuals from across Jersey who are also planning centenary commemorations to get in touch so that we can co-ordinate our approach. 

"We are hoping to have a mini-website and a pamphlet that would have all the information about all the events held around the island."

But, above all, they want the celebrations to be led by islanders and are calling on them to give their suggestions on how to commemorate the big day.