Europe often prides itself on being a global leader in democratic values, human rights, and equality. But scratch beneath the surface, and a troubling reality emerges when it comes to gender equality in politics and power, the continent is still falling short. Despite progress over the years, Europe’s democracy continues to fail many women, not just in representation, but in influence, safety, and recognition.
Across the EU, women remain underrepresented in national parliaments, ministerial posts, and top decision-making roles. Even in countries that boast strong gender equality laws on paper, the numbers tell a different story. Only a handful of European nations have achieved true gender parity in politics, and many still lag far behind. In the European Parliament itself, the very symbol of the EU’s democratic project, men continue to dominate key leadership roles.
But the issue goes deeper than just headcounts. Women who do reach positions of power often face additional hurdles: online abuse, sexist media coverage, and systemic resistance from within political structures. For many, the cost of participation is higher, not just professionally, but personally. Studies have shown that female politicians receive more threats and harassment than their male counterparts, a fact that discourages many women from even entering the political arena in the first place.
Policies also reflect these gaps. When women aren’t at the table, issues like childcare, reproductive rights, pay equity, and gender-based violence don’t receive the urgency or nuance they deserve. That disconnect undermines the very democratic promise of serving all citizens equally.
To be clear, there are bright spots. Some countries have introduced quotas or parity laws, while others have embraced feminist foreign policies or invested in women’s leadership programs. But progress is uneven, and often too slow. Symbolic gestures alone are not enough. Without structural reform, including candidate selection rules, campaign funding fairness, and stronger protections for women in public life, the promise of equality will remain unfulfilled.
If democracy is supposed to reflect the will and diversity of the people, then Europe still has work to do. True democracy means more than voting, it means ensuring that everyone has a voice, the power to shape policy, and a political space where they can lead without fear or bias. Until that’s a reality for women across the continent, European democracy will remain incomplete.
