On March 11th, 2025, Europamente ETS and TIA Formazione Internazionale APS hosted a dynamic webinar as part of the VOC Project, bringing together participants from across Europe to explore the challenges and opportunities for women in politics. This event was one of thirteen webinars held between February and March, gathering over 100 participants, including the 84 young women of the European Consultative Body and staff from the 20 partner organizations engaged in the project. The discussion unfolded as a journey through history, policy, and personal experiences, reflecting on the past, assessing the present, and envisioning a future where political leadership is truly inclusive.
The session opened with a reflection on the historical path of women in politics, tracing the milestones that have shaped gender equality in leadership. From the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 to the adoption of CEDAW in 1979, from the landmark Beijing Platform for Action in 1995 to the ongoing efforts under UN Sustainable Development Goal 5, the webinar examined how these frameworks have influenced policies and perceptions. Participants considered the impact of these global commitments, questioning whether legislative progress has effectively translated into real, sustainable change for women in leadership.
As the discussion deepened, attention turned to the barriers that continue to hinder women’s participation in politics. Cultural norms, institutional challenges, and personal struggles often shape an environment where female leadership is still seen as an exception rather than the norm. Gender stereotypes, exclusion from political networks, and financial obstacles create additional layers of difficulty for women aspiring to public office. The conversation did not dwell solely on challenges; it also brought forward strategies to dismantle these barriers, emphasizing the need for targeted reforms, inclusive policies, and greater support systems for women entering the political sphere.
One of the most compelling moments of the session emerged when real-life success stories were shared. Participants analyzed the experiences of female political leaders who have defied societal expectations and forged their paths despite systemic resistance. These examples served as powerful reminders that change is possible—not just through individual perseverance but also through collective advocacy, policy reform, and societal transformation.
Beyond identifying obstacles, the webinar also focused on equipping participants with practical tools to navigate and influence political spaces. Discussions centered on strategies to create more inclusive electoral processes, tackle media bias, and address the financial disparities that often hinder women’s campaigns. The exchange of ideas underscored the importance of mentorship, networking, and solidarity in shaping a political landscape where women’s voices are heard, respected, and valued.
As the session concluded, it was clear that the conversation was not just about politics—it was about reshaping the structures that define leadership and governance. The webinar was not only a reflection on progress but also a call to action, urging young women to claim their space in political decision-making. It reinforced the core mission of the VOC Project: to foster a new generation of leaders committed to building a more inclusive and representative society. As participants left the discussion, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose, inspiration, and the understanding that breaking barriers is not just about achieving equality—it is about strengthening democracy itself.
For more insights, be sure to visit the official VOC project website! Moreover, on the project’s YouTube channel, you’ll find recordings of all 13 webinars.
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