Only 1 in 7 countries is led by a woman

Women continue to remain significantly under-represented in political leadership worldwide, with most major decisions still dominated by men, according to the latest data released by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and UN Women.

The report, published on March 11, 2026, during the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) in New York City, highlights stagnation—and in some cases regression—in women’s political representation across the globe.

Key Findings of the Report

• In 2026, only 28 countries are led by a woman Head of State or Government.
• 101 countries have never had a woman leader.
• Women hold 22.4% of cabinet minister positions globally, down from 23.3% in 2024, indicating a reversal after years of gradual progress.
• Fourteen countries have achieved gender parity in cabinet representation, showing that equal representation is achievable.
• However, eight countries still have no women ministers at all.
• Women occupy 27.5% of parliamentary seats worldwide, a slight increase from 27.2% in 2025.

Challenges Faced by Women in Politics

The report notes that women in politics increasingly face hostility and intimidation, both online and offline. Even when women reach leadership roles, they are often assigned portfolios traditionally linked to social sectors, limiting their presence in key ministries such as finance, defence, and home affairs.

About CSW70

The Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) is the United Nations’ annual global forum on gender equality and women’s rights, held from March 9–19, 2026, at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

About the IPU

The Inter-Parliamentary Union is the global organisation of national parliaments. Founded in 1889, it is considered the first multilateral political organisation in the world, aimed at promoting cooperation and dialogue among nations. Today, the IPU includes 183 national member parliaments and 15 regional parliamentary bodies.

Source: UN Women