Speakers

• Srilatha Batliwala
• Michelle Ryan — Australian National University
• Dr Vandana Ramachandran
• Dr Antra Bhatt — United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women
• hope chigudu — City of Hope

Abstract

Achieving gender equity requires not only equal representation, but also equal access to positions of leadership, influence, and decision-making. Drawing on the latest evidence from the 2026 Gender Snapshot report produced by UN Women and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, this session will explore the current state of women's leadership globally and examine how leadership shapes policies that affect the lives of women and girls.
Through a moderated discussion, panelists will assess progress towards gender equality in political and institutional leadership, explore the barriers that continue to limit women's access to positions of influence, and consider the implications of leadership gaps across a range of policy areas. These include reproductive rights and bodily autonomy, education and youth policy, labour protections and economic participation, and digital governance and emerging technologies.
The session will also focus on solutions. Panellists will discuss how research and evidence can be better integrated into policymaking, what data policymakers need to drive meaningful change, and how academic institutions, publishers, international organisations, and civil society can support evidence-informed decision-making.
By connecting global data with real-world policy challenges and opportunities, the discussion aims to move beyond measuring progress and towards identifying practical actions that can advance gender-equitable leadership and create more inclusive and effective policies for the future.

Looking for more in the field?

Explore more events from Breaking Barriers for Gender Rights and Justice through Research and Springer Nature's Springer Nature SDG Talks.