Promotion of women in decision making within trade union structures
Internal practice
Duration
Ongoing.
Reason it was developed
Traditional under-representation of women in trade union decision-making structures, including in trade unions where they predominate as members.
Activities
CTU organises training seminars for members, during which they can acquire legal and communication skills as well as how to perform decision-making roles in education bodies. Due to the high representation of women in the union, the seminars are largely taken up by female members.
Results
CTU has been successful in countering the trend of male dominated leadership in education trade unions with a predominately female membership. The union now has a female president and nearly 55% of members of its Assembly and 65% of its Great Council are women. The importance of demonstrating good leadership and mentoring, as well as overcoming stereotypes and discrimination which continue to persist in trade union structures were highlighted as critical success factors. In addition, the union organised training seminars for members, during which they can acquire legal and communication skills as well as how to perform decision-making roles in education bodies.
Funding
Internal trade union's funding.