Women in Politics: Overcoming Obstacles and Establishing Legacies

The realm of global politics has historically been male-dominated, with women encountering considerable obstacles to their participation and representation. Nonetheless, the discourse has transformed significantly in recent decades as women dismantle obstacles, contest conventions, and forge lasting legacies in governance. This article examines the advancements women have achieved in politics, the obstacles they still encounter, and the significant influence they exert on the political landscape.

Transcending Obstacles: A Historical Analysis

Historically, cultural conventions and patriarchal frameworks marginalised women from political decision-making. In the early 20th century, the suffragette movement was a pivotal moment, as women in nations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand advocated for and secured the right to vote.

Significant Achievements:

• In 1902, Australia became the inaugural nation to confer upon women the rights to vote and to stand for parliamentary office.

• In 1960, Sirimavo Bandaranaike of Sri Lanka ascended to the position of the world's inaugural female Prime Minister.

• In 2016, Hillary Clinton became the inaugural woman to obtain a major party nominee for the U.S. Presidency.

• In 2021, Kamala Harris became the inaugural woman, the first Black woman, and the first South Asian woman to assume the office of Vice President of the United States.

• In 2005, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was inaugurated as Africa's inaugural elected female head of state, assuming the presidency of Liberia.

These anniversaries demonstrate that although the progress has been gradual, women's contributions to politics have been substantial and meaningful.


Current Involvement of Women in Politics

Women are advancing in current world politics. In 2023, women represent roughly 26.7% of national parliaments globally. Although this represents a significant advancement compared to previous decades, it is still very distant from equality.

Prominent Instances:

• Jacinda Ardern (New Zealand): As Prime Minister, Ardern's compassionate leadership during disasters, including as the Christchurch terrorist incident and the COVID-19 epidemic, garnered international recognition.

• Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Nigeria): While mostly recognised for her contributions to international finance, her efforts in policy formulation have significantly impacted African governance.

• Angela Merkel (Germany): Serving as Chancellor for 16 years, Merkel's pragmatic leadership established her as a cornerstone of stability in European politics.

Obstacles Encountered by Women in Politics

Notwithstanding these accomplishments, women in politics face a multitude of challenges:

• Cultural Barriers: Gender preconceptions frequently diminish women's authority as leaders.

• Economic Disparities: Campaign money presents a substantial obstacle, as women frequently lack the resources available to men.

• Harassment and Violence: Female politicians encounter threats and abuse in both digital and physical realms.

Case Study: Online Harassment

• An Amnesty International survey indicated that women politicians, especially women of colour, are disproportionately subjected to internet abuse. Diane Abbott, the UK’s inaugural Black female Member of Parliament, got almost fifty percent of all hostile tweets directed at female MPs before to the 2017 general election. 

• Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), a U.S. Congresswoman, has consistently addressed the hate she encounters online, especially as a young Latina in politics, highlighting the convergence of racism, sexism, and ageism in digital environments.

The Transformative Influence of Women in Politics

The presence of women in politics results in more comprehensive policymaking that addresses varied societal concerns. Studies demonstrate that female lawmakers emphasise concerns such as education, healthcare, and child welfare, which are frequently neglected in male-dominated legislative bodies.

A graph illustrating the global percentage of women in legislative positions from 1990 to 2023 demonstrates substantial progress.

Case Study: The Parliamentary Model of Rwanda

Rwanda distinguishes itself as a global pioneer in women's political representation, with women occupying 61% of parliamentary seats as of 2023. This was accomplished via constitutional mandates and quotas, guaranteeing equitable representation. As a result, Rwanda has experienced significant improvements in healthcare, education, and gender equality policy.

Strategies to Empower Women in Political Leadership

To attain enhanced gender parity, multiple measures may be implemented:

• Legislative Quotas: Nations such as Rwanda and Sweden have exemplified the efficacy of gender quotas. 

• Mentorship Programs: Initiatives that connect emerging female politicians with experienced leaders might offer guidance and support.

• Public Awareness Campaigns: Transforming cultural perceptions is essential for promoting the acceptability of women in leadership positions.

Establishing Enduring Legacies for the Future

Women in politics not only dismantle obstacles but also motivate subsequent generations. Individuals such as Malala Yousafzai, despite not holding political office, impact global policy discourse, exemplifying the capabilities of young women in governance.

Inspirational Quotes from Women Leaders

"Watch your thoughts, for they will become your actions. Watch your actions, for they will become your habits. Watch your habits, for they will become your character. Watch your character, for it will become your destiny." - Margaret Thatcher

''Our Democracy is not perfect. But our Democracy is worth fighting for'' - Kamala Harris

"I raise up my voice—not so I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard. We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back."- Malala Yousafzai

Final Assessment

The trajectory of women in politics exemplifies resilience and transformation. Despite notable advancements, attaining complete parity necessitates ongoing lobbying, systemic improvements, and societal transformation. Empowering women in politics enables societies to harness significant potential, promoting inclusive and equitable government that serves the collective good.

Women are not merely dismantling obstacles; they are constructing legacies that inspire and influence the future of global leadership.