Let March 8th be not only a day of recognition, but also a day of commitment to more justice, solidarity and respect. Equality between women and men is not just a matter of rights, but a fundamental pillar of peace and progress that we all want to achieve. This was stated by the MP from the parliamentary group of “BSP - United Left” Mariana Boyadzhieva in a declaration from the parliamentary rostrum.
On the eve of March 8, from the parliamentary group of "BSP - United Left" we express our respect and gratitude to all women for their contribution to the development of society, the economy and spiritual life in Bulgaria. March 8 is a symbol of the long road to equality and dignity for women, the declaration also says.
Boyadzhieva pointed out that despite the progress made on equality, challenges remain, as there are still differences in pay between women and men, job insecurity, difficulties in combining professional and family life, as well as manifestations of violence and discrimination.
The difference in pay between men and women in our country is decreasing, but it is still over 12%. However, we must note that Bulgaria is one of the countries with a lower-than-average gender pay gap in the European Union, which, according to the latest data, is 16.3%. Just two days ago, the European Statistical Office (Eurostat) announced data according to which for 2024 Bulgaria ranks fifth in the EU in terms of the share of women in leadership and managerial positions, which is just over 40%. By this indicator, Bulgaria is a kind of leader in the Balkans, Boyadzhieva also said.
According to her, various studies show that the inclusion of more women in politics leads to a greater focus on labor problems, the distribution of public goods and the reduction of corruption. The representation of women in politics in Bulgaria in recent decades has remained at a relatively low level. The percentage of women in the Bulgarian parliament is between 21-27%. It is worth noting as a success that from the 36th National Assembly until now, the Bulgarian parliament has elected a woman as its chairman eight times, Boyadzhieva noted. She also added that a woman has recently been the President of Bulgaria. In local government, after the last elections, only 13.7% are women. Women municipal councilors are 28%, which is not an improvement compared to previous elections, added Boyadzhieva.
She added that women show their professionalism and leadership in all areas. True equality means that every woman has real opportunities for development, economic independence and security, said Boyadzhieva. According to her, it is good to remember that the Bulgarian woman has always been the support of the family and the guardian of traditions. With strength, care and dignity, she passes on values to the next generation, Boyadzhieva said.
She called on March 8 to be an occasion for reflection and new, joint efforts to support women's rights.