The most influential women in the world named: the singer beat out politicians

Forbes’ 20th annual list of the world’s 100 most powerful women reveals a complex picture of female power. This year’s list features a dynamic lineup of leaders from diverse spheres of influence, ranging from innovative newcomers to established figures. They all celebrate significant strides in women’s global influence. But the list, while highlighting women’s achievements, raises important questions about the state of their power.

Forbes announces its 20th annual ranking of the most inspiring female CEOs, entertainers, politicians, philanthropists and policymakers influencing the world today.

For the second year in a row, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tops the list, followed by European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde and US Vice President Kamala Harris, who maintain their positions in second and third place.

“In a year marred by uncertainty and instability, the world’s most powerful women are using their influence outside traditional spheres to drive profound change,” said Moira Forbes, executive vice president of Forbes.

The women included in the 2023 rankings come from six categories: business, technology, finance, media and entertainment, politics and philanthropy. To determine the ranking in each category, as well as the overall ranking on the list of 100, Forbes used four metrics: money, media, influence and spheres. They include builders, disruptors and innovators in every sector, from corporate to creative.

ForbesWomen editor Maggie McGrath commented: “Over the past twenty years of compiling the Most Powerful Women list, we have documented a shift in the way we achieve power around the world. This year’s list illustrates this perhaps better than any other, as entertainment stars take the top spot alongside global politicians and leaders of the world’s most powerful companies.”

Most notably, singer Taylor Swift’s dramatic rise from No. 79 to No. 5 represents a new influence archetype, signaling a shift away from traditional political and corporate power that goes far beyond traditional entertainment. Its economic impact this year is staggering: The US Travel Association estimates that the US leg of the Eras Tour has collectively brought in more than $5 billion to the US economy. However, Swift’s most profound influence lies in her ability to influence the cultural and social movements of our time, especially among a young, predominantly female audience.

Taylor Swift’s rise also highlights a significant gap in the female power landscape, such as in politics. The leaders on this year’s list are examples of women’s influence in historically male-dominated fields and play a key role in shaping economic policy and legislation. However, these leaders emphasize the exception rather than the rule.

This noticeable shortage of women in senior political positions stands in stark contrast to previous years. Ten years ago, five women led countries in the world’s 25 largest economies, but today that number has dropped to just one. Only 13 of the 193 member states of the United Nations are now led by female heads of government. Despite the positive growth in women’s representation at various levels of political life, the decline in the number of women holding senior political positions is especially noticeable during times of global crisis.

The decline is further complicated by the precarious nature of political power: Five key leaders on this year’s list, including Ursula von der Leyen and Kamala Harris, face re-election challenges, while others are ending their terms or have been forced out of office.

US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield, ranked 75th on the list, stressed in an interview with Forbes that compassion and understanding are essential to effective diplomacy. “You have to listen to people, whether you agree with them or not,” says Thomas-Greenfield. “You also have to be kind.” Kindness is the most effective weapon you can have.”

Women’s power is at a key crossroads today, and the key to progress lies in the balance of both hard and soft power, unlocking the full potential of women’s leadership.

According to singer Beyonce, “the most attractive thing a woman can have is confidence, with which women all over the world have reached heights and pedestals that could once only be dreamed of.”