Podgorica, (MINA) – Over the past 25 years, significant progress has been made in the field of gender equality in Montenegro, but there are still challenges that require the joint efforts of institutions and society, said Parliament Speaker Andrija Mandic.

According to the Parliament’s press release, Mandic opened the session of the Women’s Parliament dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Gender Equality Committee, the first institutional mechanism for gender equality in Montenegro.

He said that the anniversary represents an important opportunity to review the achieved results, but also an opportunity to recognize all the women and men who, with their work, commitment and courage, helped made gender equality an integral part of the legislative and public policy of Montenegro.

Mandic also emphasized that there are still challenges that require a coordinated response from institutions and society as a whole, pointing out that no society can be satisfied while there are obstacles that limit the equal participation of women, violence against women and economic and social inequalities that affect the lives of many citizens.

He emphasized that Montenegro has tied its European future to the values ​​of equality, human rights and the rule of law, pointing out that gender equality is not a matter of meeting international standards or negotiating obligations, but rather a matter of the quality of democracy and overall social development.

Chair of the Gender Equality Committee Jelenka Andric emphasized that the anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on Montenegro’s path in promoting gender equality, and to acknowledge all those who have contributed to that process and reaffirm the commitment to further strengthening the society of equal opportunities, dignity and respect for human rights.

Deputy Speaker and co-chair of the Women’s Club Zdenka Popovic said that the Women’s Parliament has been an important space for dialogue, exchange of experiences and joint reflection on ways to build a society of equal opportunities, in which knowledge, responsibility and commitment are the only measures of success.