The Increasing Presence of Women in Leadership

Feb 23 , 2025
By Kidist Yidnekachew

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Following the recently concluded 38th AU Summit, I was captivated by the presence of incoming heads of state and officials. Yet, what caught my attention was the Ethiopian women in high-ranking positions, welcoming these dignitaries with authority and grace. A wave of pride washed over me, seeing women not just participating, but leading their country’s representation was profoundly moving. For so long, women have been the quiet architects behind power, the advisors whispering in the ears of leaders rather than holding the microphone themselves.

Some cynics argue that these appointments are mere window dressing, women placed in visible roles for public relations rather than real influence. I cannot say such instances never occur. However, dismissing these steps entirely ignores the undeniable progress in Ethiopia and globally. The very fact that people are now questioning whether women hold real power indicates a shift in societal expectations. Not long ago, such a question would not even have been raised, the implicit, and often explicit, answer would have been “no.”

The appointment of a woman as Ethiopia’s Defense Minister, a traditionally male-dominated field, is an indicator of this change. While people celebrate this achievement, it is crucial to place it in historical context. The country has a legacy of female warriors, women who fought alongside men, demonstrating their strength and leadership for centuries. This appointment is not a radical departure from the past but a reclaiming of a legacy long overshadowed.

Similarly, Ethiopia’s first female president, although a relatively recent one, was an important shift. It shattered a long-standing glass ceiling, proving that women are not only capable but qualified to lead at the highest levels.

Why have not women held more leadership positions in the past?

The answer lies in deeply ingrained societal norms and biases. Patriarchal structures, reinforced by cultural traditions and religious interpretations, have historically relegated women to secondary roles. Implicit biases, subconscious prejudices that shape decisions without conscious awareness, have played a big role. These biases manifest in overlooked promotions, the undermining of women’s contributions, and a persistent belief that leadership is a male domain.

Beyond bias, structural barriers have also limited women's advancement. The lack of accessible and affordable childcare, combined with societal expectations that women should bear primary family responsibilities, has forced many women to choose between career growth and domestic obligations.

However, the tide is turning. Globally, awareness of gender inequality is growing, and efforts to address it are gaining momentum. Gender quotas, leadership mentorship programs, and workplace equality initiatives are creating real change. Ethiopia is no exception. More women are stepping into powerful positions, and their presence is increasingly visible. It is not just about placing a few women in high office but about building a system where women have equal opportunities, their voices are valued, and their potential is fully realised.

The possibility of a female prime minister in Ethiopia would mark a profound step toward gender equality in leadership.

The under-representation of women in power has tangible consequences for global stability. Research suggests that female leadership styles often focus on negotiation and de-escalation, potentially reducing conflict.

Kidist Yidnekachew is interested in art, human nature and behaviour. She has studied psychology, journalism and communications and can be reached at (kaymina21@gmail.com)

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PUBLISHED ON Feb 23, 2025 [ VOL 25 , NO 1295]

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