What does it really take for women to enter politics today?
In this special edition from the European Parliament, Laura Dowling speaks with MEPs Kathleen Funchion and Cynthia NĂ MhurchĂș on International Womenâs Day about their experiences of political life and the wider landscape for women entering leadership roles.
Through personal stories and candid reflections, they discuss how they each found their way into politics and why there is no single blueprint for women who want to lead. The conversation explores the growing issue of online misogyny, the importance of representation in shaping policy on issues such as domestic violence, and the role Irish political parties must play in supporting more women to participate and progress into leadership positions.
Together, they reflect on the resilience required to remain in public life and why creating a more inclusive political culture matters not only for women, but for democracy itself.
The reality of online misogyny in politics
Both guests speak openly about the misogynistic abuse female politicians face online and how social media harassment has become a serious barrier discouraging women from entering public life.
There is no single path into politics
Kathleen Funchion and Cynthia NĂ MhurchĂș reflect on their personal journeys into politics, showing that women often arrive through very different life experiences and career paths.
Why representation in politics matters
The conversation highlights how having more women in political leadership influences the issues that receive attention, including policies that directly affect womenâs lives.
The impact of abuse on families and future candidates
Online harassment does not only affect politicians themselves - many women hesitate to run for office because they worry about the impact on their families and children.
Turning experience into political action
Rather than ignoring abuse, the guests discuss how they channel these experiences into advocacy and policy work aimed at addressing misogyny and harassment.
The role of political parties in supporting women
Irish political parties, they argue, must do more to actively encourage and support women who want to enter politics and progress into leadership roles.
Domestic violence and policy responsibility
The discussion touches on how political representation can shape legislation and awareness around issues such as domestic violence and safety for women.
Resilience in public life
Remaining in politics often requires resilience and support networks, especially for women navigating hostility in public spaces.
05:10 - Kathleen and Cynthia share how they first entered politics
11:40 - Why there is no single blueprint for women entering political life
14:10 - Confidence, opportunity, and why women hesitate to run
19:20 - Online misogyny and the abuse women face on social media
28:10 - The impact of online harassment on families and future candidates
36:50 - The importance of representation in politics and policymaking
49:00 - Domestic violence and the role of policy leadership
55:00 - Encouraging more women to participate in political leadership
59:20 - Resilience, public service, and the future of women in politics
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