5 things that happen when women lead in politics and peace

Women make up nearly half the world’s population. Yet as of 1 January 2025, they hold just 27.2% of parliamentary seats globally, fewer than one in four cabinet positions, and 106 countries have never had a woman head of state or government.

This is not a gap. It is a democratic deficit.

Inclusive democracy cannot serve the full breadth of society if half of that society is missing from the rooms where decisions are made. At NIMD, supporting women’s full and equal participation in political life is central to our work.

This International Women’s Day, we shine a light on the women working in politics and peace and what changes when women lead.

1. Peace Agreements Long Longer

When women participate meaningfully in peace negotiations, agreements are 35% more likely to last at least 15 years. Inclusive processes produce more durable outcomes.

2. Governance becomes more accountable

Higher women’s representation in political institutions is consistently linked to stronger transparency and better stewardship of public resources — across regions and political systems.

3. More people get a voice at the table

Women leaders are more likely to advocate for the inclusion of other under-represented groups. When political space opens for women, it tends to open wider — for everyone.

4. Public policy reflects more needs

Where women hold decision-making power, investment in health, education, and social protection tends to follow. Policy becomes more responsive to the full population it serves.

5. The next generation believes its possible

When young women and girls see women in political leadership, they are more likely to engage in democratic life themselves. Representation shapes not just today’s politics — but tomorrow’s democrats.

Find out more about what NIMD does around the world to ensure this change happens here.