Former MEP Josianne Cutajar lauded proposals put forward in Labour’s electoral manifesto aimed at extending parental leave benefits, including to self-employed workers.

Lawyer and former MEP Josianne Cutajar, who also strongly advocates for women in business leadership, said that with the right support and opportunities, women can thrive in business and leadership roles. However, she noted that many women still face significant challenges, particularly when it comes to balancing career ambitions, family life and the expectations that often continue to fall disproportionately on women.

For this reason, she described the proposals announced in Labour’s electoral manifesto, including extending maternity and paternity leave benefits, inclduing to self-employed persons, as positive and much-needed initiatives that better reflect the realities of modern families and working women.

She also spoke about the DHub hotspot desking concept for startups, particularly those operating in the digital sector, as well as the importance of mentorship. Cutajar said that support systems like these can make a real difference for women wishing to enter the business world and build something of their own.

She added that greater access to marketing support, mentorship, networking opportunities and business facilities would further empower aspiring female entrepreneurs and help more women take their place in business and leadership.

Another positive proposal, she said, was the initiative announced by Dr Lydia Abela encouraging wider discussion around stereotypes linked to parenthood and caregiving roles.

Cutajar was speaking during a discussion held in the presence of Prime Minister Robert Abela, organised in conjunction with Nisa Laburisti in Floriana.