Breaking Glass Ceilings In Mongolia And Southeast Asia: A Comparative Analysis Of Female Representation In Cabinet Positions And The Strategies For Future Advancement

Abstract

This study examines the representation of women in cabinet positions in Southeast Asia, with a focus on the progress made and the challenges that remain in achieving parity with Western countries. Despite significant strides in recent years, women continue to be underrepresented in senior cabinet positions, particularly in portfolios related to defence and security. Through a comparative analysis of datasets of four nations including Mongolia, this research identifies the factors that have contributed to the increase in female representation and highlights the gaps that persist. Furthermore, women are underrepresented in key decision-making positions, such as prime ministers and defence ministers. According to the “Women’s Power Index” by the Council on Foreign Relations 2024, out of 193 countries cited, 25 % have a female head of state or government with fifty percent holding both cabinet and national legislature posts. In Asia specifically, within the southeast region of the continent, there has been a vast improvement in female representation in government cabinet posts, however, this study will illustrate that compared to the West.