The journey and struggle in the representation of women in politics has seen a long way. Increasing the participation of women in political leadership and decision-making position is needed to bring diversity in making governance also gender-equitable.
There has, in fact, been a visible stride in furthering the status of women within politics. Women such as Jacinda Ardern in New Zealand and Kamala Harris in the United States have worked to fight the barriers in many societies. Legislative change, gender quotas, as well as initiatives supporting the women candidates, have also been a boost to these numbers.
But even as all this happens, here lie the challenges: Women have often faced barriers such as gender bias, unequal access to resources, cultural and societal values that militate against them. These issues may serve to constrain female opportunities in running the electoral race and attempting to influence political determinations.
Efforts to address these issues include those that further women’s leadership and political participation. Training programs, mentorship, and support for women candidates would help throw out various barriers and make room for increased participation. Systemic issues such as pay inequality and work-life balance can alleviate the overall environment that is unsupportive of women in politics.
Women have a better future in politics as society awakens more and more in the call for gender balance. There remains a need to endeavor to continue breaking the barriers to women’s success and promoting supportive policies—nothing less than societal change that will enhance a better women’s representation and leadership in the respective societies.
This is evidenced by the fact that although women have made significant strides in politics and other spheres, much remains to be done. Much remains to be done in supporting women’s leadership in an effort towards gender equity so that different voices are heard in political decision-making.
