The Centre for International Economic Understanding (CIEU) hosted a book discussion seminar titled Women Who Shape Nations on June 8 to explore the role and impact of women in politics and public affairs. At the invitation of Ms. Meenakshi Lekhi, former Minister of State for External Affairs of India, former President of Taiwan Tsai Ing-wen delivered a keynote address via a pre-recorded video.
Former President Tsai is Taiwan’s first female head of state and the first woman in Asia to be elected president without coming from a political family, marking a significant milestone in the development of democracy in Asia. During her presidency, she actively promoted women’s political participation and gender equality, making important contributions to enhancing women’s representation and status in public life.
In her remarks, former President Tsai recalled her visit to India in 2011 and noted that she was deeply impressed by the vibrancy of Indian democracy, particularly the enthusiastic participation of women voters in the world’s largest democracy. She observed that while women’s participation in politics has continued to grow in recent years, women remain underrepresented in governments around the world. She expressed her hope that more outstanding women, such as former Minister Lekhi, would enter public service and contribute to advancing gender equality and democratic development.
The event brought together participants from India’s political, academic, diplomatic, and think tank communities to exchange views on women’s political participation, democratic governance, and public leadership across different countries. The discussions underscored the important role women play in national development and democratic governance, while also reflecting the importance Indian society places on women’s engagement in public affairs.
