SNP faces female MSP exodus as election approaches

In Scotland, a significant political shift is taking place as the next election approaches, with a notable number of Scottish National Party (SNP) Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) announcing they will not seek re-election. As of March 17, 2025, out of 23 MSPs who have made this announcement, 14 are women, highlighting a concerning trend in female representation within the party. This situation has raised questions about the SNP's commitment to gender equality, particularly given the party's previous achievements in female representation at Holyrood, which reached 45 percent during the last election, with 58 women elected. This influx of MSPs announcing their retirement is alarming for the SNP, especially considering its historical context. Nicola Sturgeon, the first woman to serve as First Minister of Scotland, has been recognized for her efforts to promote women's participation in politics. However, with twice as many female parliamentarians stepping down as male, detractors argue that the initial promise of Sturgeon as a feminist trailblazer has not translated into lasting female representation. Moreover, a recent survey indicated that more than three-quarters of female MSPs reported an increase in online abuse since their election, compounding challenges in retaining women in politics. John Swinney, the current SNP leader, has denied the party has a 'women problem' and emphasized that the negative experiences women face in political roles are part of a broader global issue. The decision not to enforce a previous rule requiring retiring female MSPs to be replaced by women has led to concerns that Scotland is on the brink of a more male-dominated political landscape, reversing the steps made toward gender parity. Swinney suggested that it is crucial for the party and wider politics to find ways to create a positive environment that encourages women to stay and thrive in their roles. As the SNP grapples with this loss of female MSPs, it is also navigating potential cabinet reshuffles, as significant figures within the party step down. Given that eight of the current ten cabinet ministers are women, there is hope that this gender balance can be maintained in future appointments, despite the impending changes. The situation underscores the need for renewed efforts to support and protect women in politics to avoid regressing on gender equality, as concerns about the treatment of female politicians become increasingly pressing in the public discourse surrounding the upcoming elections.