Why?

Why in 2008 are women still underrepresented in politics? In the USA the land of equality and opportunity we have seen the inauguration of Obama after an incredibly gender focused campaign. Obama’s cabinet does not reflect his rhetoric; less than 25%of his cabinet are women. No doubt the naysayers will claim that there are not enough women with the appropriate skills to take their place alongside the male cabinet members.

But, consider this – the top ten companies in the Fortune 100 have close to 40% women in senior positions – these companies are performance driven in a way that governments are not.

Consider also the gender balance of the cabinets appointed by France, Spain and Sweden – all three presidents have accurately reflected their populations with close to a 50/50 split. Gender balance is a key priority of their governments such as those in the Philippines, Finland, Germany, India, Ireland, Liberia, Argentina (and until recently New Zealand) are led by women.

For more on gender balance read blogs Finance and Investments and Womenomics.