The 2024 general elections in Mauritius have drawn attention not just for their political outcomes but for the glaring gender disparity in representation. While the ruling coalition secured a sweeping 60-0 victory in the 60 elected seats, all 10 women candidates were elected, reflecting a disappointingly low 16.6% of female participation in a country where nearly 52% of the population is female.
This imbalance persists despite sustained lobbying efforts from Gender Links, which has been at the forefront of advocating for a 50/50 gender balance through its Plis ki enn kota (More Than a Quota) campaign. The campaign emphasises the importance of equitable representation to ensure inclusive governance. However, the election results underline the stark gap between aspirations for gender equality and the politiucal will to do so.
Mauritius employs a unique Best Loser System to ensure fair representation of minority groups. In 2024, this system resulted in the appointment of one additional woman, bringing the total number of women in the 66-member Parliament to 12 (18%). While this is a slight improvement, it remains far from the parity needed for balanced decision-making.
In the new government, only two women have been appointed to ministerial roles out of 24 ministries (8%). This underrepresentation extends to key leadership positions in Parliament, where Ariane Navarre-Marie, a prominent female leader, has had a long political career spanning back to 1982, serving as a key figure in the opposition. On the other hand, Jyoti Jeetun, a political newcomer but experienced leader as the former CEO of the Mont Choisy Group, also joins the cohort of women parliamentarians, adding a diverse perspective to the table. She is the Minister of Financial Services and Economic Planning, marking a historic first in Mauritius. This achievement is significant as it highlights progress in gender representation in high-level decision-making positions Stephanie Anquetil serves as Chief Whip, marking only the second time since independence in 1968 that a woman has held this position. Anquetil, a seasoned politician, has been a Member of Parliament since 2010 and is recognised for her steady rise in leadership.
In a promising move, the Prime Minister has appointed 10 junior ministers, including four young women (40%) signalling a deliberate effort to involve the younger generation in governance. This initiative allows them to learn from seasoned politicians while contributing fresh perspectives to the country’s development. This decision is particularly significant at a time when Mauritius faces a pressing challenge of brain drain, as many young, talented individuals leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad. By empowering young women in leadership roles, the government is sending a strong message to the youth that their contributions are valued and vital to the nation’s progress.
The low participation of women in politics reflects structural barriers and cultural norms that continue to hinder gender parity in Mauritius. This imbalance undermines the country’s development, as a lack of diverse perspectives can lead to skewed policy-making that does not address the needs of all citizens.
Gender Links is advocating for gender equality through the implementation of a Non-Binary Gender Equality Bill (NBGEB) to ensure inclusive and equitable representation for all genders. This approach goes beyond the binary framework, recognising that true equality requires acknowledging the diversity of identities and ensuring that all voices are heard in decision-making processes. Gender mainstreaming, as emphasised by Gender Links, is not merely a procedural formality or a “tick in the box” exercise. Instead, it must become a habitual practice embedded in all levels of governance and society. By making every voice count, this initiative aims to foster an environment where policies and actions reflect the realities and contributions of all individuals, creating a foundation for sustainable and inclusive development. In this day and age, achieving gender-balanced political representation is not merely a moral imperative but a strategic one, essential for sustainable development and inclusive decision-making.
Anushka Virahsawmy
Director GL Mauritius and Francophone Operations
Founder GL Safe Haven Halfway Home
Mauritius employs a unique Best Loser System to ensure fair representation of minority groups. In 2024, this system resulted in the appointment of one additional women, bringing the total number of woman in the 66-member Parliament to 12 (18%). While this is a slight improvement, it remains far from the parity needed for balanced decision-making.