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Politics · Funchal · 19 September 2026

Madeira's Female Local Officials Discuss Women's Role in Local Power

The 1st Meeting of Female Parish Officials of Madeira gathered in Porto Moniz to discuss the legacy, present, and future of women in local politics.

Madeira's Female Local Officials Discuss Women's Role in Local Power

The Porto Moniz Multipurpose Space hosted the 1st Meeting of Female Parish Officials of Madeira, organized by ANAFRE. The event featured a debate on 'Women in Local Power: Legacy, Present, and Future' and a tribute to former Parish Board presidents.

Mirla Fernandes, a councilwoman from Ponta do Sol Municipality, argued that a political office isn't necessary to serve the community and called for greater appreciation of parish-level local government roles. She highlighted the challenges of balancing personal and professional life but emphasized that motherhood should not be seen as a barrier.

The meeting served as a forum for reflection and learning about women's participation in local politics, with attendees including officials from various parishes across the island.

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