EU Parliament Backs Proxy Voting For Pregnant MEPs

The European Parliament has voted to adopt an amendment led by Roberta Metsola that would allow Members of the European Parliament to vote by proxy during pregnancy and after childbirth.

The proposal received strong backing, with 605 MEPs voting in favour, 30 against, and five abstaining during Thursday’s plenary session in Brussels.

The amendment to the European Electoral Act will only take effect once all EU member states give their approval.

It permits pregnant MEPs to delegate their vote to a colleague for three months before their expected due date and for six months following childbirth.

Under the current rules, MEPs are required to be physically present in Parliament to cast their votes. Although they are excused from attendance during maternity leave, they are not allowed to participate in decision-making during this period.

Following the vote, Metsola celebrated the reform, calling it a long-overdue step towards modernising parliamentary procedures and improving gender equality in politics.

She said that no woman should have to choose between serving her constituents and raising a family.

The amendment will now be sent to the European Council for unanimous approval.

#MaltaDaily