As record world population goes to vote in 2024, 113 countries have never had woman head of state or government

In 1893, New Zealand became the first country to ensure voting rights for women. And 47 years later, a leader named Khertek Anchimaa Toka of the now defunct Tuvan People’s Republic (erstwhile Soviet protectorate, presently part of Mongolia) became the first head of state anywhere in the world. 

However, in the present day, considering the number of women head of states, the gender gaps in political leadership are far from having been bridged. As the largest world population goes to vote this year, a staggering 113 countries have never witnessed a woman serve as Head of State or Government and only 26 countries are led by a woman as of today.

According to a report by United Nations Women (UN Women), only 26 countries are led by a woman, which is a slight increase from just 18 countries a decade ago.

According to the report titled UN Women’s global data on Women Political Leaders 2024, female political leaders represent 23.3 per cent of Cabinet members heading Ministries in 2024—a less than 0.5 percentage point increase from 2023. 

Also these elected women representatives continue to primarily lead portfolios related to women and gender equality, family and children affairs, social affairs, and indigenous and minority affairs. 

Ministry domains such as economic affairs, defence, justice, and home affairs, continue to be dominated by men.

According to a press statement issued by UN Women on June 24, despite progress, women are still largely excluded from positions of power and diplomacy, with the highest levels of influence and decision-making still predominantly occupied by men. 

Sima Bahous, the UN Women Executive Director was quoted in the press statement as saying —  “Our work is guided by the belief that when women lead, the world is better for all people and the planet”.

“As many countries head to the polls this year, we all must put women first, at the pinnacle of power, where and when it matters the most. Women’s equal participation in governance and leadership is key to improving lives for all,” she added.

The report further noted that male dominance in diplomacy and foreign affairs extends to the Permanent Missions to the UN as well.

 “As of May 2024, women held 25 per cent of Permanent Representative posts in New York, 35 per cent in Geneva, and 33.5 per cent in Vienna,” the report stated.

The UN Women statement underlined that electing and appointing women in leadership positions signals strong political will for gender equality and demonstrates a collective commitment to tackling the challenges the world faces today.