The Struggle for Women’s Representation in Politics
Women and gender-diverse individuals have long fought for a more prominent role in the political arena. As of now, only six countries globally have over 50% women in their parliaments. This lack of representation is not just an issue of numbers; it reflects deeper systemic challenges that continue to hinder progress.
In 2024, only five women were elected directly as presidents in various countries, despite over 30 nations holding presidential elections. While more than 45% of public servants are women, they often find themselves concentrated in certain sectors such as education and healthcare, where they tend to occupy lower-level positions. This trend is highlighted in the Global Gender Gap report, which underscores the need for more equitable distribution of roles across different fields.
Despite these challenges, when women do lead, the results can be transformative. Research by Cowper-Cowles shows that higher levels of women’s political participation are linked to a reduced risk of civil wars, state-led violence, and violations of political rights. Additionally, data from the UNDP indicates that women’s involvement in politics can significantly contribute to the successful conclusion of peace talks and the sustainability of peace agreements.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, governments led by women demonstrated quicker decision-making, clearer communication, and a more risk-averse approach. These examples highlight the potential impact of women’s leadership on societal well-being.
The Importance of Women’s Leadership
Women’s participation in political and public life is essential for achieving social justice. It has been a central demand in various international conventions. The current issue of Gender & Development explores the theme of ‘Women’s leadership in politics and governance: understanding the potential of transformative feminist leadership.’ This publication aims to inspire hope and resistance against despair, envisioning a future that is more inclusive and equitable.
The issue highlights how effective community organizing can drive transformative change. Contributors discuss the importance of mentors and allies in strengthening women’s political organizing. They also provide insights into addressing historical inequities and promoting social justice through collective efforts.
The articles in this collection focus on the contributions of women, particularly Black and Indigenous individuals, trans persons, LGBTQI+ communities, and other historically marginalized groups. These groups are working to advance their political participation through legislation, policies, and advocacy within governmental, organizational, and movement spaces.
Case Studies and Contributions
This special issue includes case studies from numerous countries, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Japan, Kenya, Lebanon, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, and several others in the Asia Pacific and sub-Saharan African regions.
The authors of this publication are practitioners, scholars, activists, and grassroots political workers. They discuss how advocates, primarily in the global South, are actively working to bring marginalized voices to the forefront. Their efforts ensure that these voices can claim their space in political processes, build power, and advance political goals while promoting community leaders into elected office.
Their research draws lessons from policy and practical experiences to advance, strengthen, and expand the theory and practice around transformative feminist leadership.
International Agreements and Progress
This year, 2025, marks 30 years since the Beijing Platform for Action, which committed states to achieving parity in political representation and strengthening democracy globally. Since then, additional agreements have emerged, such as the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, and regional agreements like the Protocol on the Rights of Women in Africa and the Pacific Islands Forum Gender Equality Declaration.
More recently, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) reiterate the need for women’s full participation at all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and public life, specifically under SDG 5.5. These agreements commit member states to taking action to increase women’s representation in government, but enforcement remains weak due to a lack of political will and structural factors.
Furthermore, there are no such agreements for gender-diverse or trans individuals. While progress has been made, it is slow. At the current rate, gender parity in parliaments might not be achieved until 2063, according to UN Women.
Bahran Hariz adalah seorang penulis di Media Online IKABARI.
