On January 18, 2025, Tsvetelina Penkova, Member of the European Parliament and President of the European Energy Forum, took part in the conference of the Union of Socialist Women (USW) of the Bulgarian Socialist Party. The event brought together the leadership, delegates, members and supporters to discuss important issues related to women's rights, equality and social development.
Dora Yankova was re-elected as Chairwoman of the USW, which is a testament to the achievements and successes of the organization to date. Penkova was elected a member of the National Council.
In her address, Penkova expressed gratitude to the participants for their support over the years and emphasized the significant role of the Women's Union in protecting women's rights and strengthening their positions in politics and society.
“For 20 years, the Union of Socialist Women has always been at the heart of our efforts for equality and social justice. This is a structure that not only protects women's rights, but also actively works to build a more just society,“ Penkova said.
She drew attention to the current statistical data, which show that the gender pay gap in Bulgaria and the EU remains over 12% in favor of men.
“We cannot accept that women in the 21st century still receive lower pay for equal work. This is an injustice that must be overcome with specific policies and commitments. We need transparency and real measures for change,“ she stated.
Penkova noted the efforts of the Party of European Socialists (PES) to promote transparency in pay, eliminate discrimination and fight against violence against women.
Penkova expressed support for initiatives aimed at introducing a quota principle in political structures, calling for at least 30% of representatives of the executive branch to be women.
“We have sufficiently prepared, proven and dedicated experts who can contribute to the development of our country. We must give them the opportunity to show their potential,“ said Penkova.
In her speech, Penkova emphasized that Bulgaria is one of the leading countries in the EU in terms of representation of women in high positions in both politics and the private sector: “I am proud to have grown up in Bulgaria - in a society in which women find fulfillment and recognition for their skills, expertise and qualifications. Thank you for raising us like this and giving us this self-esteem and confidence. Let us help other European countries reach this level“.
The conference ended with a common ambition to build a fair and sustainable future. Penkova emphasized that the SEA will continue to be a driver for change and that women in the party and society have a crucial role in achieving these goals. “We will continue to fight for equality, transparency and justice. Together we can fight and change Bulgaria and the EU towards a better and more dignified future,“ she concluded.
To contact the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament: https://www.socialistsanddemocrats.eu/.
