Women in Politics

By: Liya Brown

Women in politics have made significant strides, but the road to equality remains fraught with challenges. Despite comprising half of the global population, women are underrepresented in most legislative bodies and political offices, with less than 25% of parliamentary seats occupied by women worldwide. This lack of representation means that women's voices, needs, and perspectives are often overlooked in policy-making, particularly on issues like reproductive rights, gender-based violence, and healthcare. Gender bias and stereotyping further complicate their journey, as women politicians are harshly scrutinized for their appearance, demeanor, and personal lives, while their male counterparts are not subject to the same level of judgment. They also face double standards, where their assertiveness is often labeled as "aggressive" or "bossy," traits that are more readily praised when displayed by men. The “leaky pipeline” effect also plays a significant role, as women encounter barriers early in their political careers, from a lack of mentorship and networking opportunities to limited access to the resources needed to run for office.

The absence of female mentors in leadership positions only worsens this issue. Moreover, women in politics often face harassment and violence, both online and offline, which discourages many from entering or continuing in the political arena. Political structures and parties also tend to favor men, with women struggling to find adequate support and funding to run for office. Institutional barriers such as insufficient maternity leave and lack of affordable childcare make it harder for women to pursue political careers.

Despite these obstacles, women continue to break barriers, with leaders like Jacinda Ardern and Kamala Harris showing that political leadership is not confined to one gender. To achieve gender equality in politics, there needs to be a concerted effort to address both the structural barriers and societal biases that prevent women from reaching their full potential. Empowering women in politics not only benefits women but leads to more inclusive policies and better governance, ensuring a more equitable society for all.