Over the years, females have been gaining more recognition in the global political field, but there’s still more work to be done.
Photo By: Erin King, Photographer

By: Camila Mota, Copy Editor

Over the span of the past century, many female leaders in the global political field have positively impacted societies around the world after conquering many obstacles. As they participate in politics and diplomatic affairs, women take advantage of opportunities that increase female representation in politics and in society itself. Female leaders play an essential role in breaking the gender categorizations of the present political system.

Female leaders throughout contemporary history have established their presence around the world, including one that has changed the course of a major European country’s future: Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel. Merkel began as a scientist before becoming Chancellor and did not seem to be a strong potential candidate to participate in politics. However, Merkel’s leadership has led Germany to develop the largest economy in Europe.

Senior Ashwin Ramaknshnar says, “I think the breaking of old traditions by women in politics is a step forward in providing women with more positive role models to look up to, but there also can be a greater leap forward so that more women may be less afraid to step forward in society.”

While the idea of female politicians’ positive impact can be supported by the results of their influences on society, there are projects and studies that further support this assertion. The results of these projects include more women, who make up more than half of the U.S.’s population, voting in elections, and trends indicating that the motivation of female voters increases when other women participate in politics. The 2012 Project promotes political education of women in order to inform women of all their available opportunities.

Prominent figures in politics have emerged such as Dilma Rousseff, the first female President of Brazil. Rousseff’s initiative and confidence are what led to her rise to power. Rousseff is not afraid to use her power for the greater good of society, which was demonstrated when she fired several members of the Brazilian government due to allegations of corruption.

Junior Shelby Resnick feels that current female leaders have opened opportunities for other women to take higher positions in society and have also demonstrated that women are capable of taking over these prominent positions.

In the U.S., a woman who may come to mind when thinking of an American female powerhouse is former Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton. Within her many accomplishments as a leader, Clinton has worked with the U.S. State Department to create projects such as The Women in Public Service project that compel women across the U.S. and across the globe to take part in service projects in their respective communities. Clinton’s impact has become known as “the Hillary effect”.

Women who have left their mark on the course of contemporary history demonstrate certain commendable qualities that make them stand out in societies everywhere. It is important to point out these qualities of leadership and determination due to the fact that they are the key to understanding the path to success and change.

Sophomore Samantha Lim says, “Female leaders try not to show their weakness in a male dominated field. They probably feel like they are trying to prove themselves as worthy professionals.”

The increase in female leaders demonstrates diversity amongst various political and diplomatic fields. Women in the global and diplomatic field are demonstrating a very powerful presence that others will continue to pursue. The diversity demonstrated insinuates what the impacts of the women in these fields may have for the future and for future female leaders.