Executive Summary – Bridging the Leadership Gap Women in Local and Regional Governments in Latin America

This executive summary from GWL Voices’ Women in Politics initiative, developed with UN Women and UCLG, offers an unprecedented look at women’s leadership in local and subnational government across Latin America. Drawing on data from recent elections in Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, and Panama, and the lived experiences of women mayors and governors, it highlights persistent barriers—from political violence and unequal access to financing to entrenched gender norms—while showcasing the strategies women are using to lead effectively. The summary makes clear that accelerating women’s leadership is not just about representation; it is essential for building more democratic, resilient, and equitable communities.