Women in politics have made incredible progress over the years, taking on key leadership roles and
breaking down barriers. Despite the challenges they still face, like bias and political systems that
were historically dominated by men, their influence is growing. They are pushing forward
important issues that impact not just women, but society as a whole.
Women Leading on the Global Stage
One of the most notable women in politics today is Ursula von der Leyen, the first female President
of the European Commission. She has been an important figure in guiding the European Union
through difficult times, like the COVID-19 pandemic, and has focused on policies related to climate
change and technology. Her leadership is a key example of how women are changing international
politics.
In New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern has gained global recognition for her compassionate and effective
leadership. She became Prime Minister in 2017 and has since focused on issues like social welfare,
gun control, and her country’s strong response to the pandemic. Her quick and strict actions during
the COVID-19 crisis helped save many lives, and she became known for her empathetic approach,
especially after the Christchurch mosque attacks in 2019.
In the United States, Kamala Harris made history as the first woman, the first Black woman, and the
first South Asian woman to become Vice President. Her rise in American politics marks a turning
point, and she has long been a strong voice for justice reform, healthcare, and women’s rights.
Harris’s presence in such a high-ranking role shows how women’s representation in politics is
changing in the U.S.
Women’s Political Power Beyond Executive Roles
Women aren’t just excelling in the top jobs—they are also making waves in legislative roles. In
Finland, Sanna Marinbecame the world’s youngest sitting Prime Minister when she took office at
34 years old. She leads a coalition government mostly made up of women and has focused on
gender equality and environmental sustainability, including bold plans to make Finland carbon-
neutral by 2035.
In Africa, Samia Suluhu Hassan became Tanzania’s first female president in 2021. Her leadership
has been marked by efforts to strengthen international relations and increase COVID-19
vaccinations, taking a much different approach than her predecessor. Her election is a big step
forward for women in African politics.
The Challenges Women Face
Even with their successes, women in politics often face significant hurdles. Angela Merkel,
Germany’s first female Chancellor, who led the country for 16 years, once said that women in
politics must prove themselves more than men. Merkel’s leadership, especially during crises like
the refugee influx in 2015, showed her strength, but she had to work hard to be taken seriously in a
male-dominated field.
Women also remain underrepresented in politics globally. As of 2023, only about 26% of
parliamentary seats are held by women. While countries like Rwanda, where over 60% of
parliament members are women, show that progress is possible, many countries still have a long
way to go. Cultural norms and sexism make it tough for women to enter and stay in politics.
Even when they do break through, women can face harsh criticism. Julia Gillard, Australia’s first
female Prime Minister, faced constant attacks on her appearance and personal life—criticisms that
her male peers often didn’t receive. This highlights the double standards that women in politics
often encounter.
The Benefits of Women in Leadership
Despite these barriers, studies show that when women are involved in politics, governments tend to
function better. Women often focus on issues like healthcare, education, and child care—topics that
are sometimes overlooked by male-dominated governments. In Iceland, for example, strong female
leaders, like Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, the first woman elected president in the world, helped the
country create policies that have made it a global leader in gender equality.
Additionally, when women hold political office, they inspire others. In the U.S. Nancy Pelosi has
been a powerful figure, serving as Speaker of the House of Representatives. Her leadership and
legislative skill have made her one of the most influential women in American politics.
Conclusion
Women in politics are not just breaking glass ceilings—they are changing the priorities and policies
of governments around the world. Although there is still a long way to go in achieving gender
equality, women leaders like Ursula von der Leyen, Jacinda Ardern, Kamala Harris, and many
others are paving the way for a more inclusive, diverse political future.
Their leadership proves that when women are given the opportunity, they can make a lasting
impact, and their voices are essential to building a better world. However, there is still a need to
address the barriers that hold women back in politics, so that future generations of women can reach
their full potential in leadership roles.
