MP Zuzu Izmailova: Estonia needs more women in power

Riigikogu member Zuzu Izmailova argues that many of today's societal problems stem from decades of male-dominated decision-making. Speaking on the podcast 'Puuduta mind', she called for greater female representation in Estonian politics. Host Anu Saagim agreed, suggesting wars might not happen if women were in charge.

Estonian MP Zuzu Izmailova has argued that Estonia's political landscape remains overwhelmingly male-dominated, and that this imbalance lies at the root of many contemporary societal problems. Speaking on the podcast Puuduta mind, she made a direct call for more women to take positions of power in Estonian politics and governance.

The conversation began by exploring the mental health challenges faced by LGBT+ youth in Estonia, but quickly expanded into a broader discussion about gender roles in politics. Izmailova argued that decades of male-dominated decision-making have shaped societies in ways that have left many problems unaddressed. «We need more women in power,» she stated, pointing to the persistent underrepresentation of women in Estonian political institutions, including the Riigikogu.

The show's host, Anu Saagim, went even further, suggesting that armed conflicts might be less common if women held more leadership roles. «There would be no wars either, if women were in charge,» Saagim remarked, reflecting a view shared by several guests during the discussion.

Izmailova's comments touch on a longstanding debate within Estonian society. While Estonia has seen prominent female politicians — including former Prime Minister Kaja Kallas — women remain underrepresented in parliament and local government compared to their share of the population. Advocates have long pushed for structural changes, including party-level gender quotas, to address the gap.

The episode of Puuduta mind highlights how discussions about minority mental health and gender representation are increasingly intersecting in Estonian public discourse, with politicians like Izmailova using media platforms to push for a more inclusive approach to governance.