Introduction to the Current State of Women in Central Bank Leadership
According to the independent expert group Official Monetary and Financial Institutions Forum (OMFIF), the number of women in top positions at central banks saw a mere 12% increase last year, marking the lowest growth in three years. Furthermore, the count of central banks led by women has dropped from 46 in 2022 to just 30 last year, accounting for only 15% of the world’s 195 recognized countries.
Focus on Latin America and the Caribbean
The OMFIF Global Gender Equality Index 2025 reports a decrease in female central bank leaders in Latin America and the Caribbean. From six such professionals two years ago, only five now lead central banks in the region. Among them is Victoria Rodríguez Ceja, Governor of Banco de México.
- Jeannete Semeleer, President of the Central Bank of Aruba
- Cindy Scotland, CEO of the Monetary Authority of the Cayman Islands
- Rebeca Patricia de Santos, President of the Central Bank of Honduras
- Rossana Costa, President of the Central Bank of Chile
- Victoria Rodríguez Ceja, Governor of Banco de México
These women are currently shaping monetary policy amidst the trade tensions initiated by the United States.
Progress and Challenges
The OMFIF report highlights a positive trend of increased hiring of women in mid-level and senior positions across Latin America and the Caribbean, rising from 46 to 47. However, experts note that progress is counterbalanced by the replacement of women with male leaders in certain central banks and pension funds, creating a cautiously optimistic outlook on gender balance in top leadership roles.
Despite having women at the helm of monetary institutions, the advancement is overshadowed by a higher concentration of men occupying senior leadership positions.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: How many countries are led by a female central bank governor? A: Only 15% of the world’s 195 recognized countries have a woman leading their central bank.
- Q: How many women lead central banks in Latin America and the Caribbean? A: There are five women currently leading central banks in this region.
- Q: What is the overall trend in hiring women for mid-level and senior positions at central banks? A: There has been a slight increase from 46 to 47 women in these positions across Latin America and the Caribbean.
- Q: What challenges persist in achieving gender balance in central bank leadership? A: The replacement of women with male leaders in certain institutions hinders progress, and a higher concentration of men in senior roles remains an obstacle.
