Political opinion with Beccy Cooper MP: Building a fairer future
International Women’s Day was an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of women and girls, while also recognising the work that still lies ahead. As a woman serving in the UK Parliament, it has been a time for reflection on both the progress we have made and the challenges that remain.
One of the most inspiring aspects of modern politics is seeing women from different backgrounds, professions and communities stepping forward to represent their constituents. From the suffrage movement to the present day, generations of women have challenged barriers that once excluded them from politics and decision-making. Today, with over 260 women MPs representing communities across the country and bringing diverse perspectives to national debates, this progress matters.
Parliament must reflect the people it serves if it is to understand the issues they face and develop policies that work for everyone. For me, our current system is still skewed far too heavily in favour of confrontation and tribalism. We need the skills of both men and women to find balance, cooperation and rational compromise – as evidenced, thankfully, far more in Committee than at PMQs.
While we celebrate the fantastic women who through their talent, courage and sacrifice have brought about that progress, we must accept that having greater numbers of women in parliament alone is not enough. There are still many inherent barriers still lurking within our parliamentary system, not least the issue of balancing a relentless work diary with family life, particularly for those MPs working at great distances from home. And while overcoming years, or even centuries, of inbuilt gender discrimination has come a long way, the transition to true equality is still far from complete.
Outside parliament of course, women across the UK still face huge disadvantages in their everyday lives. Whether the gender pay gap, the challenge of balancing work and caring responsibilities, or the persistence of gender-based violence, too many women continue to experience obstacles to opportunity, security and wellbeing.
For those of us in public office, there is a responsibility not only to speak about these disparities but to work actively to address them. That means advocating for policies that support families, improve access to healthcare and education, and ensure that women and girls are safe and able to thrive. It also means supporting the next generation of women leaders and encouraging more women to participate in public life.
Here in Worthing West and across the country, women are leading in their communities: running businesses, working in public services, volunteering and supporting families. Their work is vital to the social and economic fabric and must be not only recognised but supported as we build a fairer, more sustainable future.
Yes, there has been progress but the goal remains: a future in which every woman and girl has the opportunity to fulfil her potential, and where equality is no longer an aspiration but a reality.
As always, you can contact me at [email protected]