2021 celebrates a decade since the U.N. passed a resolution advocating for greater participation of women in the political sphere. Devex took the time to speak to three formidable women leaders transforming politics today.
by Devex Editor
22 February 2021
It will take an estimated 99.5 years to achieve gender parity at the current rate of change.
This is despite decades of concerted efforts to create an even playing field for women. Last year saw the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, adopted by 189 nations. And 2021 will mark a decade since the United Nations passed a resolution advocating for greater inclusion of women in the political sphere, acknowledging that “many obstacles still prevent women from participating in political life on equal terms with men.”
While a glass ceiling still exists, there has been substantial progress. The latest “Global Gender Gap Report” showed that women’s political empowerment improved in 108 out of 149 countries, driven mainly by a significant increase in the number of women in parliaments.
Change is happening at all levels in all spheres of life. The United States just elected its first female, Black, and South Asian vice president, Kamala Harris; New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has been lauded for her effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic; and Ugandan climate activist Vanessa Nakate has shown the world that the strength of one’s voice doesn’t depend on their age, race, or gender.
Changing the Face of Politics
Listen to Vanessa Nakate and other trailblazers such as Michelle Bachelet, former President of Chile, in the podcast series “Changing the Face of Politics” hosted by the National Democratic Institute, which features in-depth interviews with some of the women at the forefront of this change.
But it should be recognized that women are not a homogeneous group. Factors such as class, race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability may influence a woman’s capacity or motivation to participate in politics.
To highlight inspiring voices of women in politics around the world and take a deeper look into the challenges they face and the change they’re hoping to achieve, the National Democratic Institute have put together a podcast series showcasing women leaders from all around the world, and all generations.
While it’s not possible to shine the spotlight on every woman active in politics, Devex took the time to speak to three more women leaders from diverse backgrounds.