Progress in female political representation observed, yet journey to equal representation still extensive
Europe is known for its progress in gender representation, yet it varies significantly between countries. The European Commission's Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025, monitored by the Gender Equality Strategy Monitoring Portal, aims to boost women's representation in politics and decision-making.
Between 2010 and 2024, women's representation in national parliaments increased by an average of 9.4% across the region, reaching a share of 33.4%. Seven nations – Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Spain, Belgium, Austria, and the Netherlands – have surpassed 40% gender balance in their national parliaments, primarily due to legislative quotas.
Local progress, however, has been sluggish and inconsistent. Over the period 2011-2024, the share of women in local and municipal councils increased by an average of 4.3%, with Sweden, Spain, France, and Finland leading the pack, followed by large disparities among countries. Germany, for instance, only reached a 24.6% share in 2024.
Change happens faster with commitment and clear targets, as seen in Spain, where election quotas have played a significant role in bridging the gender gap. A balanced political representation offers numerous benefits, including fairness, diverse perspectives, and stronger governance, leading to a more inclusive and democratic society.
Worldwide, while progress in gender representation has been made, the goal remains unfulfilled. In 2024, 72 countries held national elections, but only minor gains and uneven progress were seen. The European Institute for Gender Equality's Gender Equality Index indicates that women's political power is an area in greater need of improvement.
Regional averages for women's representation in national parliaments show significant differences. Nordic countries and the Caribbean lead the way, while Central and Eastern Europe lag behind. The global goal of achieving equal representation by 2030 is a distant dream, with many countries far from meeting this target.
But there's hope. Lawmakers and organizations worldwide are working tirelessly to boost women’s representation through targeted policies, quotas, and empowerment initiatives. However, systemic barriers persist, making sustained efforts crucial in the struggle to achieve parity.
- The European Commission's Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025, aimed at boosting women's representation in politics and decision-making, extends to the realm of health-and-wellness, hoping to address issues such as women's health more equally.
- The progress made in Europe in terms of women's representation in education and science is closely linked to their political representation,with a more balanced political representation paving the way for a more inclusive and progressive society.
- The uneven progress in gender representation seen in general-news reports, not just in Europe but worldwide, underlines the need for stronger governance and commitment to gender equality in all sectors, including economy and politics.
- The European Commission's Gender Equality Strategy Monitoring Portal doesn't just focus on politics but also monitors progress in other areas like women's health and education, ensuring a holistic approach to gender equality.
