Barmm political parties to sign gender equality pact

Regional political parties in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm) are set to sign a peace covenant committing to gender equality and women's human rights during a forum Tomorrow, September 23.

The event, hosted by Women Engaged in Action on 1325 (WE Act 1325) and Oxfam Pilipinas, will address the implementation of gender provisions in the Bangsamoro Electoral Code.

The dialogue, to be held at the Grand Pagana Hall, aims to ensure that the gains on gender equality and women’s rights are faithfully implemented. It will also serve as a platform for political parties to commit to a free, honest, peaceful, and orderly election.

According to Majoy Grefaldo, Oxfam Pilipinas communications officer, the event is organized by the Women’s Empowerment for Leadership in Development and Peace in Bangsamoro (WELD-Peace) Project, with partners Al Mujaadila Women’s Association (AMWA), Community Organizers Multiversity (COM), Humanity and Inclusion (HI), and UnYPhil-Women, in collaboration with the Bangsamoro Women Commission (BWC).

“Representatives from regional political parties are expected to attend and publicly commit to upholding gender equality policies and programs,” Grefaldo said in an emailed statement.

Since 2021, WELD partners and community women’s groups have lobbied for the inclusion of key Gender Equality and Women’s Human Rights (GEWHR) provisions in both the Bangsamoro Electoral Code and the Bangsamoro Local Governance Code.

The Bangsamoro Electoral Code, also known as Bangsamoro Autonomy Act No. 35, sets specific requirements for regional political parties to ensure greater inclusivity and representation.

To this end, political parties are mandated to include a women’s and youth agenda in their platforms and to create a dedicated Women and Youth Committee.

The code also stipulates that parties must ensure women and youth are represented in leadership roles and nominate at least 30% women candidates.

It also aims to prevent political dynasties by disallowing nominees who are closely related within the second degree, such as parents, children, or siblings.

These provisions are designed to strengthen the participation of marginalized groups and foster more equitable governance.

The organizers emphasize that women’s leadership is vital to peacebuilding and governance in Barmm, and that a peaceful and credible election strengthens trust in the Bangsamoro transition.