Women’s Day Poland
Women’s Right to Vote in Poland
November 28, (1918)
Number of female heads of state to date: 3
The women’s right to vote in Poland has a rich history and is closely linked to the country’s struggle for independence and the broader suffrage movement.
Poland was one of the first countries in Europe to grant women the right to vote. The fight for women’s suffrage gained momentum during the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Poland was under foreign occupation and striving for independence.
In 1918, following the restoration of Polish independence after World War I, women in Poland achieved the right to vote and stand for election. This was a significant milestone in women’s rights, as Poland became one of the first countries to grant universal suffrage, allowing women to participate in the democratic process on equal terms with men.
The right to vote was enshrined in the Polish Constitution of 1919, which recognized universal suffrage for both men and women. Polish women played an active role in politics, casting their votes and contributing to the country’s political landscape.
During the interwar period, Polish women actively participated in political life, forming organizations, and advocating for social and political reforms. Women’s organizations played a crucial role in raising awareness about gender equality and fighting for women’s rights.
Despite the interruption of women’s political participation during World War II and the subsequent communist rule, women in Poland have continued to exercise their right to vote in subsequent elections. Since the fall of communism in 1989, women have held various political positions, including members of parliament, government ministers, and even serving as the country’s prime minister and president.
Efforts have been made to address gender disparities and promote women’s political empowerment in Poland. Gender equality policies and initiatives have been implemented to increase women’s representation in politics and decision-making positions.
While progress has been made, challenges remain in achieving full gender equality in politics in Poland. Women’s representation in some areas, such as top leadership positions, remains relatively low. Further efforts are necessary to address cultural and structural barriers and ensure equal opportunities for women to participate in politics and shape the country’s future.
The women’s right to vote in Poland represents a significant achievement in the country’s democratic development and reflects the recognition of women as equal citizens. It underscores the importance of women’s active participation in the political process and highlights the ongoing need to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in Polish politics and society as a whole.
On Nov. 28, 1918, women in Poland gained the right to vote. Eight female MPs joined the Parliament in 1919: Gabriela Balicka, Jadwiga Dziubińska, Irena Kosmowska, Maria Moczydłowska, Zofia Moraczewska, Anna Piasecka, Zofia Sokolnicka, Franciszka Wilczkowiakowa.
In Poland, universal active and passive suffrage for women and men was introduced at the same time. This happened with the decree of November 28, 1918 on the election procedure for the Sejm shortly after the re-establishment of the Polish state.
On January 26, 1919, the first election took place in which women came to the national parliament. Six women received seats.
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