Why Not a Woman Leader in the USA? The Scrutiny and Path Forward

Over 70 countries have successfully elected women as leaders, yet the United States (USA) remains hesitant. This conundrum raises significant questions: does the USA not want women to lead, or is it simply unprepared for a women leader? This article explores the reasons behind the USA's lag in female political leadership, the progress made, and the necessary steps to achieve gender parity in politics.

Progress in Female Political Leadership: A Closer Look

The phenomenon of female political leadership is relatively recent, with the first non-puppet Soviet state to have a female leader being Sirimavo Bandaranaike of Ceylon/Sri Lanka, elected in 1960. In the subsequent decades, seven more countries joined her. The real surge began in the 1990s, with 23 countries having a female leader, followed by 19 in the 2000s, and 47 in the 2010s. By the 2020s, 25 countries have elected women as leaders. Despite this progress, the USA still hasn't reached this milestone.

The delay in the USA can be attributed to several factors. First, the Democratic Party's support for candidates like Elizabeth Warren, who, while well-liked, faced a mindset of 'less dislikeable' criteria. The success of Republican candidate Haley Barbour in presenting a competitive campaign against Trump underscores the challenges faced by women in gaining nominations, especially within the Republican party.

The Consequences of Gender Inequality

The absence of a female president in the USA has led to dire consequences, including restrainment of women's rights and a lack of universal healthcare. The Republican party's stance on these issues has reflected a retrograde motion towards third-world practices, such as the Taliban's governance. This move to disregard basic human rights and healthcare needs is deeply troubling and contrasts with the global trend towards gender equality and improved living standards.

Furthermore, the failure to elect female leaders highlights the broader issue of gender representation in political leadership. It is not just about having a uterus but about having a candidate who can successfully navigate the complexities of modern politics, reflecting the demographic changes and societal expectations of today's electorate.

What's the Problem Here?

The problem lies in the lack of viable female candidates and the political landscape that supports them. While Hillary Clinton ran twice, her candidacy faced significant challenges, including the Republicans' deep-seated opposition to her, fueled by her husband's presidency. Clinton's victory in the popular vote against Trump further underscores the issue: the USA needs to produce more women who are capable and willing to run for the presidency.

Canada, for instance, has seen significant progress in female political representation, with three out of the last five prime ministers being women. This success can be attributed to a culture that encourages and supports women in leadership roles, including robust networks, mentorship, and a gradual shift towards diverse political representation.

Looking Forward

To achieve gender parity in political leadership, the USA must take several critical steps:

Encouraging and Supporting Women: Political parties and organizations should actively promote and support women candidates, providing resources, mentorship, and training. Addressing Systemic Issues: Addressing systemic issues, such as gender discrimination and biases, will create a more inclusive political environment. Electoral Reform: Reforming the electoral system to better represent diverse voices and interests, including those of women.

Ultimately, the USA can and should play a leading role in global efforts to achieve gender equality in leadership. The path forward involves concerted effort, a commitment to change, and a recognition of the critical role that women play in shaping the future of the nation.