Listed companies to be forced to employ more women in Board positions?

European Parliament is suggesting European Commission to, if necessary,force by law for more women to be selected in large EU stock exchance listed companies Board of Directors. Good performance of companies with more women on board should give impetus on voluntary measures by companies, although there can be bias from the fact that those precious few currently selected are creme de la creme.

The proponents of such a move say it is gross infringement on owners rights to select the leaders they wish. Those for the move can liken it to having regulations for companies having to select independent outside board members.

Some politicians from Nordic countries, where women participations in all factions of society has long been the norm, have supported such a move. Norway already has a 40% female quota legislation in place for large cap firms since 2004.