Women Face Barriers in Žabljak’s Leadership and Employment

In the small town of Žabljak, which has a population of 2,941 residents, only a fraction of leadership positions are held by women. Despite a significant number of women in the community, the representation in local governance and organizational leadership remains limited. This illustrates a broader issue of gender inequality that persists in various sectors of society.

The town has a total of nine organizational units; however, only three are led by women. The absence of essential services such as a maternity hospital and counselling for expecting mothers adds to the challenges faced by women in Žabljak. Out of 30 council members, only seven are women, which constitutes 23.33 percent. This figure falls short of the legal minimum for female representation in local governance.

Gender Disparities in Local Leadership

Žabljak is divided into 12 local communities, with leadership exclusively held by men. This situation raises concerns about the inclusivity of decision-making processes within the municipality. Women are notably underrepresented in political roles, limiting their ability to influence policies that affect their lives and the community at large.

In the education sector, however, women constitute a more substantial presence. They make up approximately 65.78 percent of all employees within educational institutions. Despite this higher representation, only 75 percent of school directors are women, highlighting a disparity in top leadership roles even in fields where women are the majority.

Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort from both the local government and community organizations. Initiatives aimed at increasing female participation in leadership positions could foster a more equitable environment. This could include mentorship programs, training for women in leadership skills, and policy reforms to ensure gender parity in governance.

The situation in Žabljak serves as a microcosm of the broader struggle for women’s empowerment in many regions. As communities strive for progress, it is critical to recognize and dismantle the barriers that hinder women’s full participation in all aspects of society.