ZELS is committed to integrating gender equality into local policies and budgets by strengthening the capacities of municipalities, informing municipalities about national programs and policies, coordinating with relevant institutions and organisations, and working on the implementation, alignment, and localisation of international documents.
In line with the activities set out in the 2025 Action Plan for the implementation of the Gender Equality Strategy 2022–2027, for which ZELS is the leading body, a report was prepared, with the data presented in tabular form. The table presents data disaggregated by gender, following the indicators defined in the Gender Equality Strategy 2022–2027. These data were compiled from a total of 80 municipalities, with the exception of the Municipality of Vrapchishte, where a mayoral election was held on January 11, 2026. The data from this municipality will be added upon submission.
Based on the indicators included in the Strategy, it can be concluded that there has been a slight increase in the representation of women mayors compared to the previous mayoral term. The remaining figures regarding women councillors and women presidents of municipal councils remain within the legal quotas, or the so-called “glass ceiling,” and do not differ significantly from previous terms.
| 2.4.3 Increased participation of women in the creation of local policies and budgets, particularly vulnerable categories of women (Commitment 50-50) | Gender-disaggregated data for selected officials (ZELS) |
ZELS MLS | 2025 К2 | 2027 К4 | There are no fiscal implications | ZELS Budget | Women (%) elected mayors 4 women mayors or 4,93% Women (%) candidates for mayors Women (%) who lead municipal councils Members of municipal councils, by gender |