The line graph illustrates the percentage of female members of parliament in five European countries (Germany, Italy, France, the UK and Belgium) between 2000 and 2012.
Overall, the percentage of women in parliament increased in all five countries. Italy had the highest figure at the end of the period, while the UK experienced the most significant increase.
In 2000, Germany had the highest percentage, at approximately 33%, followed by Italy and France at 26% and 25% respectively. Germany’s figure increased gradually to around 37% in 2012. Similarly, Italy rose from 26% to 39%, becoming the country with the highest proportion of female parliament members.
By contrast, the UK started with the lowest percentage, at only 3% in 2000. However, it experienced a considerable rise, reaching approximately 28% in 2012. Belgium also saw an increase from 17% to 28% in 2004, before remaining relatively stable towards the end of the period. France fluctuated during the period, reaching about 32% in 2012.
