In 2024, nearly half the world’s population voted, but global female political representation saw its slowest growth (just 0.03%) in twenty years. Women now make up 27% of parliaments globally, with declines in representation in 27 countries, including the USA, Portugal, and South Africa. Despite progress in nations like Mongolia, Mexico, and Namibia (which elected its first female president), setbacks in others, such as Tuvalu losing its sole female MP, highlight fragile gains. Countries with gender quotas elect more women, averaging 29% compared to 21% in non-quota nations. Barriers such as ambition gaps, financial inequality, disproportionate caregiving roles, and lack of maternity leave deter women from entering politics: there has also been an increase in violence against women in public life, including disinformation campaigns. Experts warn that fewer female mentors and societal challenges may discourage young women from pursuing political careers, hindering future progress in gender parity.