KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica has been honoured by the European Union (EU) for its role in the empowerment of women, in particular for closing the gender gap in terms of women, who work in public administration.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller Wednesday accepted the award on behalf of Jamaica, during a gala and awards dinner hosted by the Women In Parliaments (WIP) Global Forum, at the Royal Museum Of Art and History in Brussels, Belgium.

The award is given to a country that has achieved a remarkable level of representation by women in the legislature, as senior officials and managers.

In accepting the award, Simpson Miller said, “”I find it gratifying that the European Union has recognised Jamaica’s achievement in the area of gender equality. I accept with a spirit of humility on behalf of the women of Jamaica, who I represent, and to whom I pay tribute this evening.”

The prime minister also noted that many Jamaican women continue to make their mark in their various spheres of endeavours despite the odds. She thanked the European Parliament and WIPs Forum for their initiative in providing an avenue for discussion on women’s leadership, noting that the experience has been enriching.

President of the EU- Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) Foundation, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, who made the presentation to the Prime Minister, noted that 28 per cent of Jamaica’s mayors and  56 per cent of permanent secretaries are females. In addition females dominate top positions such as Chief Justice, accountant general and other top public posts.

The WIP awards are based on the rankings of the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, and are awarded to countries for leadership in closing the gender gap.

Other winners in the category of political empowerment are Rwanda, for Women in Parliament; and Ireland for number of years with Female Head of State. Iceland was named the Global Winner in Closing the Gender Gap.