European Parliament grants remote voting rights exclusively to new mothers

Female members of the European Parliament will be allowed to delegate their votes to colleagues around childbirth following final approval on Thursday, Euronews reported. Male lawmakers will not enjoy the same right, raising questions about gender equality among members of the European Parliament. [1]

The measure introduces a temporary exemption from the rule that requires members of the European Parliament to vote in person during plenary sessions, Euronews reported. Female lawmakers will be permitted to appoint a trusted colleague to vote on their behalf for up to three months before their due date and six months after giving birth. [1]

Euronews reported that the change is intended to ensure that new mothers can continue to have their voices heard in Parliament while caring for their newborn children. [1]