Using the foundational framework of political representation first introduced by Pitkin’s seminal book The Concept of Representation, this work explores the progress made within women’s political representation in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). After the region’s history and collective present are explored, later chapters discuss three countries, Serbia, Poland and Moldova, in greater depth. The work argues that despite the many durable challenges that women face in CEE, women politicians and activists continue to advocate for progress and, in some cases, succeed in passing meaningful reforms. But the fate of this progress remains tenuous, given the many pervasive and enduring challenges that exist in the region, including a rise in authoritarianism and accompanying right-wing populism. The book also situates the CEE region in a global context, recognizing that the impediments CEE women in politics face are shared by women in politics around the world, suggesting a difficult path ahead.

Dr. Anja Vojvodi. is a Lecturer and the Program Director of the Political Science Program at CUNY LaGuardia Community College in New York City. Her research focuses on women’s political representation, gender quotas, women’s movements and the region of Central and Eastern Europe.

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Table of Figures
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: The Past as Present? The History of Women in Politics in Central and Eastern Europe
Chapter 3: The Importance of Political Representation: The Origins, Applications and Varied Implications of a Central Concept
Chapter 4: Substantial Progress Leads to a Lasting and Limiting Status Quo: The Curious Case of Serbia
Chapter 5: Women’s Representation as a Political Tug of War: The Contentious Case of Poland
Chapter 6: Inauspicious Beginnings Lead to Signs of Progress: The Compelling Case of Moldova
Conclusion: The Persistent Plight of Women in Politics in CEE Continues
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