Female representation in European parliaments and governments is on the rise, with women holding around 35% of national government posts in 2024, a 7.4% increase over the past decade. Finland and Lichtenstein lead the way with a 60% share each, followed by Belgium and the UK with 51%. Hungary, however, lags behind with no women in government positions, although in 2022 the country elected its first female president, Katalin Novák. Female representation in national parliaments is also increasing, with over one-third of EU parliamentarians being female, a 5.6% increase from 10 years ago. Malta saw the largest growth in the past decade, with a 15% increase, followed by Latvia with 13% and France with 10%.
Iceland currently has the largest share of women in parliament across Europe, with women holding 49% of seats. This is followed by Sweden (45.6%), Finland (45.5%), and Denmark (44.7%). On the other hand, Cyprus (14.3%), Hungary (14.6%), and Romania (19.5%) have the lowest share of female representation in their national parliaments. Despite the progress being made, there is still work to be done to ensure equal representation of women in European politics. It is important for women to have a voice and be represented in decision-making processes to ensure that a variety of perspectives and issues are taken into account.
The election of Katalin Novák as Hungary’s first female president in 2022 was a significant milestone in the country’s political history. Novák held the post until her resignation in 2024, following a series of controversial presidential pardons. Her election and subsequent resignation highlight both the progress being made in terms of female representation in European politics and the challenges that women in leadership roles may face. It is important for women in positions of power to be able to carry out their responsibilities without facing undue criticism or discrimination.
Efforts to increase female representation in European parliaments and governments are important for promoting gender equality and ensuring that women’s voices are heard in decision-making processes. The increased presence of women in political leadership roles can help to address issues that disproportionately affect women, such as gender-based discrimination and violence. It is crucial for women to have a seat at the table in order to advocate for policies and legislation that promote gender equality and protect women’s rights.
Countries with higher levels of female representation in government and parliament, such as Finland and Iceland, serve as examples for other European nations to follow. By prioritizing gender parity and taking steps to increase the number of women in political leadership roles, countries can work towards creating more inclusive and diverse political landscapes. It is important for governments to actively promote and support women in politics, whether through quotas, mentorship programs, or other initiatives aimed at increasing female representation in decision-making bodies.
Despite the progress being made, there is still a long way to go in terms of achieving gender equality in European politics. Countries with low levels of female representation, such as Cyprus, Hungary, and Romania, must work to address the barriers that prevent women from fully participating in the political process. By supporting women in politics and creating a more inclusive political environment, European countries can move closer towards achieving equal representation and ensuring that women have an equal voice in shaping the future of their societies.
Overall, the increasing representation of women in European parliaments and governments is a positive development that reflects a growing recognition of the importance of gender equality in politics. By continuing to prioritize and support women in leadership roles, European countries can work towards creating more diverse and inclusive political systems that better reflect the needs and perspectives of all citizens. It is essential for women to be represented in decision-making processes at all levels of government in order to ensure that their voices are heard and their interests are taken into account.
