This article examines the equality of women and men in society and women's political participation. It covers a wide range of topics, from theoretical understanding of the nature of power and gender analysis to historical precedents and practical barriers to women's integration into political structures. The gender dimension of power and political representation is a key issue in contemporary political science. The relevance of this topic is undeniable, as amid global democratic transitions, rising authoritarian tendencies, and increased international attention to the gender agenda (the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the Beijing Platform for Action), the issue of women's integration into political structures is acquiring not only theoretical but also practical significance. The nature of gender relations correlates with the type of political regime, offering a compelling research opportunity. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, speaking about the root causes of the persistence of gender discrimination, emphasized the role of “millennia of patriarchy," which has created a world where «males dominate, male-dominated culture harms everyone—women, men, girls, and boys»”. Moreover, “bias and discrimination" harm everyone. It is, at its core, a question of power” [Secretary-General’s Remarks…, 2020]. There are many questions within this topic. Why are women needed in power? What is power? What is the connection between the national mechanism for gender equality and women in power? What prevents women from entering power? What are the ways and means of overcoming barriers to political success? The author offers her answers.
