National Guidelines in the Netherlands - Representation of Women

Target Figures for Women in Politics and Public Administration

The government has formulated a number of target figures to increase female representation on decision-making bodies by the end of the year 2002. These figures are based on the established ratio of men and women currently in politics and public administration.

The target figures for 2002 are:

• Lower House of Parliament: over 35% following the next elections;
• European Parliament, Upper House of Parliament and Provincial Councils: 35% women following the next elections and 5% more following each subsequent election until the numbers even out;
• Municipal councils: 30% following the next elections, followed by 5% more after each subsequent election until the numbers even out; and,
• Burgomasters: 25%; Queen's Commissioners: 25%; Water Board administrators: 15% by the end of 2002.