CDU's Ines Claus admits gender quotas fall short for women in politics
Ines Claus, a leading figure in Germany's CDU, has spoken openly about the party's struggles with gender equality. Despite her rise to deputy chair, she admits more must be done to support women in politics. Her comments come as the party enforces new quotas—yet faces criticism over slow progress at local levels.
Claus joined the CDU at 21, convinced that Germany thrives under its leadership. By 2020, she became parliamentary group leader in Hesse, backed by then-Minister-President Volker Bouffier. Now, as deputy chair, she opposes cooperation with the far-right AfD and pushes for stronger female representation.
The CDU introduced gender quotas in September 2022, requiring 33% women in committees by 2023, 40% by 2024, and 50% by mid-2025. The policy, approved by a narrow 559-to-409 vote, faced resistance—even from some female members. Under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, the party met the 50% target in its federal executive by adding deputy roles, but grassroots levels lag behind.
Claus calls quotas a 'second-best solution,' admitting the ideal approach hasn't worked. In 2022, all three female deputy chairs performed worse in elections than their male counterparts. She remains humble about her own results, stressing the need for broader change.
Her priorities include economic stability, women's security, and opposing abortion law liberalisation. Yet her focus on gender parity reveals deeper tensions within the party.
The CDU's quotas expire in 2029, leaving their long-term impact uncertain. While top-level positions now meet targets, local branches still struggle with representation. Claus's leadership highlights both progress and the persistent challenges facing women in conservative politics. The party's future approach will determine whether these measures lead to lasting change.
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