United Nations Lacks Female Leadership After Nearly 80 Years
- The UN has not had a female secretary-general in its nearly 80-year history.
- Women are increasingly taking up leadership roles in major international organizations and national governments.
- A call for a woman leader at the UN is part of a broader campaign to address pressing global challenges.
Since Sirimavo Bandaranaike became the first female prime minister in 1960, numerous women have ascended to leadership roles worldwide. Despite this progress in many countries, the United Nations has not appointed a female secretary-general since its founding. This glaring absence is particularly concerning given the rising challenges regarding gender equality and women's rights globally, especially amid increasing poverty, conflict, and climate change impacts. The situation highlighted a failed attempt in 2016 to elect a woman to this prestigious position, resulting in another male election. Recently, there's been a noticeable shift with a new wave of female leadership in major international organizations, indicating that a qualified pool of candidates exists. The upcoming Paris Peace Forum on November 11-12 intends to further discuss the importance of female leadership in revitalizing the UN and addressing global issues, emphasizing the necessity of a woman at the helm as essential for effective leadership and reforms.