Last week, 26 women from Centerkvinnorna (Swedish Centre Party Women) launched a joint statement standing with Anna-Karin Hatt and Centerpartiet, following of her resignation due to persistent hatred and threats:
“During Women in Charge, we have shared experiences, listened, supported each other and realised how much power there is when we stand together. The fact that hatred and threats force political leaders away must not be without backlash.”
“We have heard stories from women who have been threatened, silenced and doubted, but also from those who have refused to give up. That is why we now say with force that Anna-Karin Hatt does not stand alone.”
“Female politicians are affected more often than men and leave politics to a greater extent due to the vulnerability. It is a frightening development, but also a clear reminder of why we must resist.”
The surprise departure of Hatt as leader prompted the women from Centerpartiet to stand together in solidarity with her. The group had recently completed the newly launched Women in Charge leadership programme, an affiliate of ALDE Party’s flagship Alliance Of Her women’s empowerment programme.
On her resignation, Hatt warned the changing social climate and rising hate towards politicians risks making people afraid to get involved in politics out of fear, especially women.
A new leader will be elected at their upcoming congress on 14-16 November, with Hatt confirming she will not stand for re-election as party leader. The joint statement provided hope for the future of female politicians in the Centerpartiet:
“Hate must not win. Behind her is a long line of women who are ready to lead an open and democratic Sweden.”