Equality Commissioner Renee Laiviera's calls in favour of gender quotas left her in a distinct minority at a conference on Saturday, as European parliamentarians and gender equality activists spoke dismissively of the idea. 

Speaking during a conference on gender equality in Europe organised by JEF Europe, Ms Laiviera pointed out that in an ideal world, women would break through glass ceilings without the need for quotas. But societal structures made it especially hard for them to enter into politics, she argued.

Gender quotas would open doors that are shut, the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality chief added.

MEP Roberta Metsola said she met women in other countries who referred to themselves as “the fourth woman”, because they were elected through a gender quota-prepared list.

“I’m proud to day I was elected because I convinced people irrespective of any quotas,” she added.

READ: Constitution allows for gender quotas, says NCPE chief

MEP Marlene Mizzi warned that women could carry a label if they were elected through a gender quota.  Women should not accept places because of their gender,  because they deserved better, she said.

Nationalist MP Kristy Debono also said that there should be a push to create a structure that makes it more realistic for women to enter politics.

During the debate, the panellists called for greater enforcement of legislation that calls for equal pay.

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat has previously said that he is in favour of introducing gender quotas for parliamentarians, saying the number of women MPs remained disappointingly low. 

Just 10 of Malta's 67 members of parliament are women.