Women in Parliament

Number of seats held by women divided by total parliamentary seats, multiplied by 100. Based on administrative records from national parliaments and electoral commissions. Includes single-chamber parliaments and lower chambers of bicameral legislatures. Data collected by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) through annual surveys of national parliaments.

Women's parliamentary representation is a fundamental indicator of political equality and democratic inclusiveness. Research shows diverse legislatures produce better policy outcomes, particularly in areas affecting women, children, health, and education. Gender parity in decision-making is SDG Target 5.5 and reflects broader societal gender equality. Countries with gender quotas average 31% women in parliament compared to 17% without quotas.

Very Low: < 10% (severe underrepresentation - Qatar 4.4%, Iran 5.6%, Nigeria 3.6%) Low: 10-20% (significant gaps - most Middle East, some Asia/Africa) Moderate: 20-30% (approaching global average - many emerging economies) Good: 30-40% (strong representation - critical mass for influence) Excellent: 40-50% (near parity - Nordic countries, some Latin America) Parity Achieved: ≥ 50% (Rwanda 64%, Cuba 56%, Nicaragua 55%, Mexico 50%) Global average: 27.2% (2025) IPU "critical mass" threshold: 30% for women to influence policy SDG Target 5.5: Equal representation in decision-making at all levels

Coverage: 193 countries Update frequency: Annual (typically updated post-election) Sources: World Bank, Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Limitations: Does not capture quality of representation (committee assignments, leadership positions), actual influence on legislation, or representation in executive branch. Upper chambers (senates) excluded from calculation. Appointed vs elected seats not distinguished. Gender quotas affect numbers but not necessarily decision-making power.