The line chart illustrates the percentage of female members of parliament in Germany, Italy, France, the UK, and Belgium between 2000 and 2012. Overall, it is evident that the representation of women in parliament increased across all five nations throughout the twelve-year period. While Germany maintained a relatively stable upward trend, other countries experienced more volatile fluctuations or significant growth.
Germany began the period with the highest proportion at 33.5% and saw a steady rise to 36.5% by 2012. Italy also showed consistent growth, starting at 26.5% and overtaking Germany by the end of the period to reach a peak of 39%. Conversely, France experienced a sharp rise to 36.5% in 2004, which was the highest single figure recorded, before declining to 31.5% in 2012.
Belgium saw a rapid increase from 17% in 2000 to 28% in 2004, after which the figure plateaued and remained near 28-29% for the remainder of the period. The UK started with the lowest representation at only 3.5%. However, it demonstrated the most significant growth, rising consistently to reach 28% by 2012, effectively catching up with Belgium.