European Parliament approves proxy voting for pregnant MEPs

On April 29, 2026, the European Parliament approved new regulations allowing MEPs to cast proxy votes during pregnancy and the post-partum period. The amendment passed in the plenary session with 616 votes in favor, 24 against, and 8 abstentions. This measure introduces a temporary exemption from the standard requirement for in-person voting. Female MEPs will be permitted to delegate their votes to a trusted colleague for up to three months before childbirth and six months after. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola characterized the decision as a step toward modernizing the institution and improving female representation. The regulation now requires further approval from national parliaments in member states to be fully implemented. This reform aims to encourage more women to seek political office in Europe.