A timeline of women heads of government in parliamentary systems
Women have emerged as formidable forces in global politics, with numerous nations electing female prime ministers over the past two decades.
Despite women facing barriers to political leadership, the world has seen numerous pioneering women serving as prime ministers and heads of state of countries.
From Srimavo Bandaranaika of Sri Lanka becoming the world’s first female prime minister to Sheikh Hasina holding the PM’s post for two terms for over 20 years, women have broken many a glass barrier to stand at the forefront of politics and governance for decades.
Women continue to be formidable leaders in the political arena, with many countries electing female leaders as prime ministers over the last two decades. On October 22, Sanae Takaichi made history by becoming Japan’s first woman prime minister.
Here’s a timeline of women who became heads of government (prime minister) in their respective parliamentary systems.
1960: Sirimavo Bandaranaike, Sri Lanka - First female prime minister in the world
She championed socialist policies and created a global standing for Sri Lanka.
1966: Indira Gandhi, India - One of the earliest women prime ministers in the world
She led India to victory in the 1971 war against Pakistan, aiding the formation of Bangladesh. She also launched major reforms like nationalisation.
1969: Golda Meir, Israel - The country's first female prime minister
She strengthened global diplomacy for Israel.
1979: Margaret Thatcher, UK - First female PM of UK
She initiated free-market reforms and became a global conservative icon.
1981: Gro Harlem Brundtland,Norway - First woman PM in Norway
She is well-known for introducing the concept of sustainable development through the UN report.
1988: Benazir Bhutto, Pakistan - First female PM of a Muslim-majority country
As a leader, she inspired Muslim women across the world.
1991: Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh - First female PM of Bangladesh
She strengthened democratic reforms and oversaw key economic reforms.
1996: Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh - Longest-serving female prime minister in the world, for 20 years
She championed for women’s empowerment and digital governance.
2010: Julia Gillard, Australia - First female PM of Australia
She pushed for major reforms in education and disability sectors and saw Australia through the global financial crisis.
2017: Jacinda Ardern, New Zealand, PM
She was well-known for compassionate handling of crises like the Covid-19 pandemic and the Christchurch attacks.
2019: Sanna Marin, Finland - World's youngest female PM at age 34
She is well-known for her progressive policies on climate and gender equality.
2022: Giorgia Meloni, Italy - First female PM of Italy
As Italy’s first popular woman political leader, she broke many barriers.
2023: Evika Silina, Latvia - First female PM of Latvia
She is known for her focus on digital governance and energy independence.
2024: Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thailand - Prime minister and daughter of former PM, Thaksin Shinawatra
As the nation’s youngest prime minister, she is popular with the youth.
2024: Judith Suminwa, Republic of Congo - First female PM of Republic of Congo
She is known for her experience in democratic governance and peace-building.
2024: Kristrún Frostadóttir, Iceland - Prime minister and world’s second youngest serving state leader
She is recognised for balancing social justice with pragmatic economic policies.
2025: Sanae Takaichi, Japan - First woman prime minister of Japan
Her policy-focused strengths include an aggressive approach to fiscal policy and increase in defence spending.
Edited by Jyoti Narayan