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There is no need for commissioner for women's rights, gender equality in Belarus, says deputy chair of Belarusian Women’s Union

There is no need for a commissioner for women's rights and gender equality in Belarus, Rehina Davidovich, deputy chairperson of the Belarusian Women’s Union of Women, told reporters in Minsk on Thursday, the eve of International Women’s Day.

"On the one hand, it would be good to have such an agency, but on the other hand, nobody prevents you from raising questions and you will be listened to," Ms. Davidovich said.

According to her, "all points" of national programs aimed at achieving gender equality are fulfilled. "I wouldn't say that we have any imbalances in gender equality or inequality," she said. "Yes, I agree with you and I don't like the fact that there is only one woman in our government: the minister of labor and social security. I would like there to be more of them [women], but almost every ministry has a woman deputy minister, and those are serious ministries, even in traditionally male sectors, such as the ministries of agriculture, industry and communications. Women are not in leading positions, but they are present there."

As a result of the September 2012 parliamentary elections, the number of female MPs decreased from 30 to 29 percent, but this is quite a large number compared with other countries, Ms. Davidovich said.
She noted that the Belarusian Women’s Union was open “for contact” with various organizations and political parties "if they are set to work for the good of the individual." //BelaPAN