Our 2011 election manifesto - Labour Party

WOMEN‟S POLICY
Our vision - Real equality, real opportunity and real choice for all women
New Zealanders believe in genuine equality amongst our people, we proved our
commitment to this ideal early, becoming the world‟s first democracy to extend the vote to
women some 118 years ago. Today, after a century of progressive change, New Zealand
women have full equality before the law.
Labour has a proud track record of delivering for New Zealand women.
But there is more to do. We can still do better to ensure all women have the opportunity to
thrive and succeed. Labour believes in supporting women of all ages, ethnicities and
backgrounds to reach their full potential by providing them with genuine choices and
opportunities.
Women in New Zealand still, on average, earn less than men and continue to be underrepresented
in workplace leadership roles. Labour will strengthen the legislative and policy
framework to address the issue of persistent gender pay gap and promote equal
employment opportunity.
Too many women feel forced to return to work earlier than they wish after childbirth. Women
still carry the overwhelming responsibility for caring for others in their family and within the
community. Work-life balance and caring-for-carers is a strong focus for Labour.
Labour will ensure that paid parental leave and flexible working conditions allow women to
participate fully and effectively in society.
It is overwhelmingly women who are the victims of domestic and sexual violence that occurs
all too often in our society. Labour will ensure that policy recognises the gender perspective
in dealing with family and sexual violence issues. Labour is committed to developing a
comprehensive and long term solution to eliminating violence against women.
Women have specific health needs, especially relating to maternal health. Labour will
support the health and wellbeing of women so they have the security and confidence to
reach their full potential and help grow strong communities for tomorrow.
Labour will ensure that all women have the opportunity to thrive, succeed and reach their full
potential by providing them with genuine choices and opportunities. This benefits not only
women but their children, families and New Zealand society as a whole.
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