Power & Progress: 20 Most Influential Female Politicians Shaping the World

Women in politics have shattered barriers, redefined leadership, and influenced global policies. From heads of state to grassroots revolutionaries, these 20 women continue to shape the future.
1. Giorgia Meloni (Italy)
As Italy’s first female Prime Minister, Meloni leads with a conservative approach, making waves in European politics.
2. Kamala Harris (USA)
The first female Vice President of the United States, Harris is a trailblazer in American politics and a global inspiration.
3. Ursula von der Leyen (European Union)
President of the European Commission, von der Leyen is a driving force in EU policies on climate, security, and economy.
4. Tsai Ing-wen (Taiwan)
Taiwan’s first female President, Tsai has strengthened Taiwan’s global standing and resilience against external pressures.
5. Jacinda Ardern (New Zealand)
Known for her compassionate leadership, Ardern’s response to crises like COVID-19 set a benchmark for governance.
6. Sanna Marin (Finland)
One of the world’s youngest prime ministers, Marin led Finland with progressive policies and a firm stance on NATO.
7. Sheikh Hasina (Bangladesh)
As the longest-serving Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Hasina has propelled economic growth and women’s empowerment.
8. Kaja Kallas (Estonia)
A strong advocate for digital innovation and democracy, Kallas is a key figure in European security and tech policy.
9. Giorgi Bregadze (Georgia)
As President of Georgia, Bregadze has worked to align the country closer with the EU and NATO.
10. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (Liberia)
Africa’s first elected female head of state, Sirleaf played a pivotal role in Liberia’s post-war recovery.
11. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (WTO)
Although not an elected politician, the Director-General of the WTO significantly influences global trade policies.
12. Yulia Tymoshenko (Ukraine)
A veteran Ukrainian politician, Tymoshenko has been instrumental in her country’s fight for democracy and independence.
13. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (USA)
A dynamic U.S. Congresswoman, AOC is a powerful advocate for progressive policies and social justice.
14. Nancy Pelosi (USA)
As the first female Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Pelosi shaped major American policies.
15. Sahle-Work Zewde (Ethiopia)
Ethiopia’s first female President, Zewde has championed gender equality and diplomatic progress.
16. Mia Mottley (Barbados)
The Prime Minister of Barbados has positioned her country as a leader in climate action and economic reform.
17. Michelle Bachelet (Chile)
A two-time President of Chile and former UN human rights chief, Bachelet remains a key global voice.
18. Droupadi Murmu (India)
As India’s first tribal President, Murmu represents a historic moment in the country’s leadership.
19. Anwar Ibrahim (Malaysia)
A veteran political leader, Anwar is focused on social reforms and economic development in Malaysia.
20. Marine Le Pen (France)
A dominant figure in French politics, Le Pen has influenced debates on nationalism and immigration.
These women prove that leadership knows no gender. Their influence spans continents, shaping the world for future generations.