As authoritarianism is on the rise worldwide, around 1.5 billion people went to the polls in more than 50 countries.  These national elections grappled with challenges involving voter participation, free speech, and electoral independence. 

By the end of 2024, there were 30 countries where 31 women serve as Heads of State and/or Government. Just 20 countries have a woman Head of State, and 17 countries have a woman Head of Government.  UN Women reports that women’s equal participation and leadership in political and public life are essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. However, data show that women are underrepresented at all levels of decision-making worldwide and that achieving gender parity in political life is far off. At the current rate, gender equality in the highest positions of power will not be reached for another 130 years

In Australia, the picture is mixed.  The federal Parliament has 45% women MPs; the ALP has 53% women and the LNP 29%.  At State and Territory level, only the Tasmanian and ACT Parliaments have a majority of women MPs, although Victoria and Western Australia come close. 

Recent appointments to the Reserve Bank have shifted the gender dial.  After the split into 2 boards responsible for monetary policy and governance, women now comprise the majority of Board Members.  

New data from the Australian Council of Superannuation Investors (ACSI) shows the number of female directors has effectively doubled in less than a decade.  In 2015, women comprised less than 20% of Board Members, rising to 30% in 2019.  This year, ACSI CEO Louise Davidson commented she anticipated Australia would achieve its 40% target.