The world feels more dangerous these days, and that’s not just a feeling. Conflicts are on the rise in places like Ukraine, Israel, Gaza, and Sudan. A striking fact is that these wars are predominantly led by men. In contrast, in other parts of the world, we see men engaging in activities like chopping wood for fun, highlighting a stark difference in how power is wielded.
As of October 2024, only 13 out of 193 countries have female leaders. Some influential figures, including former U.S. President Barack Obama, believe that having more women in leadership roles could lead to significant changes. Obama has suggested that more women in power could mean less war, better care for children, and improved living standards. Former Irish President Mary Robinson echoed this sentiment, stating that women in leadership are crucial for fostering peace.
Despite these opinions, history shows that women leaders can also engage in conflict. Christopher Blair, a politics professor, points out that women may feel pressured to act aggressively to counter stereotypes that label them as soft or less competent. For instance, Margaret Thatcher, the UK’s first female Prime Minister, was involved in the Falklands War, demonstrating that women can also make tough, sometimes violent decisions.
The pressure on women leaders to conform to masculine traits can lead to aggressive behaviors. Hillary Clinton, for example, hesitated to pursue peace talks with the Taliban, fearing she would be seen as weak. This environment encourages women to adopt more aggressive stances, as seen with leaders like Giorgia Meloni in Italy, who chose a masculine title for her leadership.
However, not all women leaders follow this path. Angela Saini, author of "Patriarchs: How Men Came to Rule," argues that women are capable of aggression but do not necessarily imitate male behavior. Historical figures like Indira Gandhi and Rani of Jhansi led with strength, but their actions were not always peaceful.
The conversation around women in leadership is complicated. While some argue that women could bring more peace, others point out that the effectiveness of leadership is not solely based on gender. The world has seen very few women in top positions, making it hard to draw direct comparisons with male leaders. In fact, only one in three countries in the UN has ever had a woman in a top role.
Experts suggest that to create a world where women lead, society must undergo significant changes. Cordelia Fine, a psychologist, notes that the shift needed to achieve gender equality in leadership roles is immense. However, studies indicate that when women are involved in peace processes or hold positions in parliament, it can lead to more peaceful societies.
Countries like New Zealand, which rank high in gender equality, have seen leaders like Jacinda Ardern adopt different leadership styles that contrast with more aggressive counterparts. Research has shown that women may generally be less inclined toward war, though this can change in times of crisis.
Ultimately, Mary Robinson emphasizes that solving global challenges requires diverse voices, not just those from half the population. The call for more women in leadership is not just about having women in charge; it’s about creating a more inclusive approach to leadership that benefits everyone.