The experience of the women’s quota in Jordan’s parliamentary elections has been in place for decades, met with both support and criticism. The opposition has often pointed to the outcomes of the quota system, which, they argue, have failed to meet societal expectations. The criticism lies in the fact that many women legislators under the quota have not delivered a memorable performance.

Supporters, on the other hand, see the quota as the only gateway for women to gain seats in parliament, often overlooking the assessment of their actual performance.

Today, after the recent elections, there has been a significant leap in terms of the number and quality of women in parliament. The new House of Representatives includes 27 women legislators, with nine of them elected through general national lists. In contrast, the previous parliament (the 19th House) had only 15 women representatives.

A review of the resumes of the women elected under the new law, whether through the national lists or local ones, reveals that they bring substantial value to parliament. Their professional, academic, and leadership trajectories stand out, signaling a promising contribution to the legislative body.

The responsibility of women legislators elected through the quota system today lies in delivering a different and impactful performance. They must advocate for family and women’s issues, work towards eliminating discrimination against women across various laws and legislations, and avoid being perceived as merely symbolic.

For their role to be meaningful, they must also demonstrate competence in broader public issues. Their voices should carry weight, matching or even exceeding the impact of their male counterparts. They need to fully understand their role in both legislation and government oversight.

Changing the stereotypical image of women legislators requires extra effort, especially from the newcomers. They must grasp the sensitivities of this critical phase for the nation, deeply understand the political balances and environment, the political system, and general political culture. Moreover, they must master the art of engaging with the media—all of which are essential for establishing their image as effective legislators and government monitors.

Why is it important to discuss the role of women legislators elected through the quota system early on? Because it enhances the perception of women in parliament and breaks the stereotypes that often overshadow their participation. This, in turn, lays the groundwork for increasing the number of women representatives in the future, aiming for a larger presence in parliament.

In conclusion:

Women legislators elected through the quota system bear a significant responsibility. They are expected to present a positive and impactful image of women that reflects the capabilities of Jordanian women. They must prioritize the nation first, women second, and reforms and change as their ultimate goals. They should embody the true image of Jordanian women as competent, capable, and educated individuals.