Advancing models of parliamentary gender quotas in the Pacific

An academic specialising in women's political representation says the Pacific is still lagging behind other regions in this area.

Kerryn Baker, a Research Fellow at the Australian National University's State, Society and Governance in Melanesia Programme, says while the Pacific has a long way to go, there are signs of progress.

Dr Baker says there is a compelling argument for looking beyond the classic models of parliamentary gender quotas in the Pacific.

She spoke to Johnny Blades who began by asking her if the lack of female representation is considered a big problem within Pacific Islands communities.