EU member states have agreed to introduce proxy voting rights for Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) who are pregnant or have recently given birth, marking a step

toward improving gender equality in European politics.

The decision, approved by ministers for European affairs during a meeting in Brussels on Tuesday, would allow eligible MEPs to delegate their vote to a colleague during plenary sessions. Currently, lawmakers are required to be physically present in either Brussels or Strasbourg to participate in votes.

The proposal originated from the European Parliament, which last year called for a narrowly defined exception to accommodate MEPs balancing parliamentary duties with pregnancy and early motherhood.

Under the new arrangement, proxy voting would be permitted from up to three months before an expected birth until six months after. During this period, an MEP could formally appoint another member to vote on their behalf.

Marilena Raouna, Cyprus’ deputy minister for European affairs, welcomed the move, saying it reflects a broader effort to make EU institutions more inclusive. Speaking on behalf of the Council of the European Union presidency, she said the measure would help women better reconcile political careers with family life and encourage greater participation in public office.

Before the rules can take effect, the proposal still requires formal approval from the European Parliament. It must also be ratified by all member states as part of an amendment to EU electoral law, following their respective constitutional procedures.

If adopted, the change would mark a significant shift in how parliamentary work is conducted, offering greater flexibility for lawmakers during key life events.