Female Leaders in Ldcs

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There was once a time where many believed the kitchen to be a woman's only place of business; their sole responsibility in society was to raise a family. It was thought that women could not handle the stress and pressure of being in the workforce. The idea of a country having a female leader was unheard of. But that was then. Today ten countries (more if we include prime ministers, and heads of state) have elected females as their heads of government. They have proven to be competent and successful – and in a society where they should not need to prove anything. It is no doubt that the roles of women in society are becoming increasingly important. In less developed countries (LDCs) women are succeeding men as their country's leaders. Three notable leaders of the world are: Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (the Philippines), Michelle Bachelet (Chile), and Pratibha Patil (India). However far and different from each other, these female leaders do share common bonds, characteristics, and goals. The saying, “great minds think alike” applies in this discussion. These characteristics are: they are well-educated; they were successful prior to taking office; and they have families of their own. Let us first begin with a background of these women leaders. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is the daughter of former president Diosdado Pangan Macapagal. She was vice president of the Philippines prior to running for president. Michelle Bachelet is the daughter of Air Force Brigadier General Alberto Bachelet Martinez. Pratibha Patil grew up in Jalgaon, a wealthy town in west India. The environment that these women were raised has given them strong, positive influences. Because their families were more financially stable, these three leaders had more opportunities than others that grew up in poor families. Therefore their families stressed the importance of a good education. Gloria

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