Romania has changed its choice for Commissioner in response to calls for gender parity by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Newly-elected MEP Roxana Mînzatu has been nominated by Bucharest in hopes of securing an economic portfolio. Mînzatu, a former minister for EU funds and secretary of state for public procurement, emphasizes the importance of gender equality in the face of rising far-right nationalism in Europe.
Mînzatu believes that the current political atmosphere in Europe, marked by the rise of far-right parties, poses a threat to gender equality and women’s rights. She stresses the need for competent women to be included in decision-making positions to combat gender-based violence and bias.
The recent European Parliament Elections saw a slight decrease in the number of women elected, reflecting broader societal trends. Mînzatu highlights the connection between the lack of women in leadership positions and gender-based violence, advocating for a more balanced representation of men and women in public life.
President von der Leyen is set to announce cabinet posts on 11 September, with nominees like Mînzatu facing scrutiny from MEPs. Romania’s decision to nominate a capable and experienced woman for the Commission aligns with the goal of achieving gender balance within the EU’s leadership.
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