Politics for All – Women Must Be at the Decision-Making Tables

Politics for All – Women Must Be at the Decision-Making Tables

Women make up half the population and should have equal opportunities and authority to participate in decisions that impact not only their quality of life but that of society as a whole. Whether in business, media, science, or politics, their voices must be heard. Politics – both national and local – has a fundamental influence on our lives, and it is essential that women take part in shaping its direction.

That’s why Business for Society joined a meeting organized in cooperation with MP and ODS Vice-Chair Eva Decroix and her Women’s Club, alongside other female political figures and organizations. The event took place on March 21, 2025, and one of the main discussion panels was held within our platform Future is Female. This time, the topic was “Women in Politics.” The panel featured prominent women from the world of responsible business.

When women are missing in politics, half the perspective is missing

 
Why is it so important for women to be present in politics? Because diversity of perspectives and approaches leads to better decision-making. If critical issues – such as family policy, education, or access to preschool care – are decided primarily by men, key topics affecting women may be overlooked. Not intentionally, but simply because they perceive them differently, perhaps as less urgent. When women are absent from politics, we risk ignoring fundamental issues including prejudice and stereotypes – which in turn stall any progress.

One of the goals behind the Future is Female platform was to end the recurring debate about why women should participate more in shaping society. In the past 100 years, women have done more than enough for society – improving quality of life, advancing science, and contributing during both World Wars. It’s time to shift the conversation to *how* we make change happen. How to create conditions that allow women to participate meaningfully in public life, motivate them to enter politics, and support their long-term engagement. Responsible companies can serve as an inspiration – they’ve gone through a similar journey and we now see the results. They’ve managed to create inclusive, motivating, and open working environments, providing flexible conditions, education, support, and respect. Even in industries that used to be “male-dominated” – banking, construction, tech, science, and brewing.

The key to positive change that benefits society as a whole is cooperation – including cooperation between women and men. If we want real change, it's not enough to create opportunities *only* for women – we must engage men as well, help them understand the value of diversity, and encourage them to become active allies. Change begins when men, too, realize they benefit from collaboration.

There is plenty of evidence showing that more balanced gender representation brings benefits to all. In companies with more women in leadership, decision-making is more effective thanks to the variety of perspectives (according to studies by McKinsey and Catalyst). The same applies in science, politics, and public administration. Where women are more present, issues like childcare, equal opportunities, and access to healthcare are better addressed.

Diversity isn’t about winners or losers. It’s about creating an environment that is fairer and more welcoming for everyone. In business, this can mean more support for fathers on parental leave, flexible working conditions, openness toward mental health and work-life balance, or greater sensitivity to generational topics.

But in Czech politics, the reality remains less optimistic. Women make up only 22% of the Chamber of Deputies and 15% of the Senate, placing the country below the European average. The situation is slightly better at the municipal level, but even there, women are still underrepresented in leadership roles. That means that key decisions are still being made mostly by men.

If we want to move the Czech Republic forward, this system must change. Engaging men in the dialogue on cooperation and the value of diversity is essential! Cooperation between women and men is the way to a better future – and a stronger, more resilient society. Together, we can build a system that is more open, fair, and truly reflects the needs of all citizens.