Setting the Scene: Women on Boards in Countries with Quota Regulations

The underrepresentation of women on corporate boards in Europe and across the world has received increased attention, especially over the last 15 years. Although there is an overall consensus that increasing the share of women in areas of power and influence is important for a number of reasons, the best manner in which to accelerate the process has been debated both between and within countries. Consequently, with an increased focus on women on boards and the use of substantially different strategies among countries, we argue that that there is a need for a better understanding of what is happening within the European setting in relation to women on boards and the use of strategies.