What Is It About Women in Leadership That Reduces Corruption?

Psychology Today

by Debbie Peterson

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Women’s leadership in government has been consistently linked to lower levels of corruption, according to a 25-year analysis by the United Nations Gallup World Happiness Study. The study reveals that regions with higher female political representation experience significant reductions in bribery and corruption, particularly in critical sectors like healthcare and education. This phenomenon is attributed to women leaders often being outsiders to traditional corrupt networks, which makes them less likely to engage in or tolerate such activities. Lena Wängnerud, a professor of Political Science at the University of Gothenburg, highlights that when more women are elected, there’s a noticeable decline in corruption. Her research, using data from 128 regional-level parliaments across ten European countries and the European Quality of Government Index (EQI), shows that areas with increased female representation saw sharper drops in bribery experiences among citizens. This trend is especially pronounced when the share of women in office rises significantly, leading to more transparent and accountable governance. The impact on health and education is particularly significant. Women leaders are more inclined to prioritize public service delivery in these sectors due to their caregiving roles, which often make them more concerned with a well-functioning state that can provide essential services. This focus on healthcare and education not only improves the quality of life for citizens but also reduces corruption, as transparent institutions are better equipped to deliver public goods effectively. Additionally, women leaders are perceived as “cleaners” in the wake of corruption scandals. They are often seen as more risk-averse and cautious, which aligns with their greater emphasis on sectors that directly benefit societal well-being. This perception is reinforced by studies showing that voters in regions with high corruption are more likely to elect female candidates over male ones, believing they are more likely to uphold integrity and prioritize essential services like healthcare. The implications for health are profound. Improved governance through increased female leadership not only reduces corruption but also

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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/22/2026