Can Women Be Leaders? An Evaluation in Light of the Qur’an and Historical Reality

One of the common assumptions in society is that women are not suitable for leadership at the state level. However, this view contradicts both the teachings of the Qur’an and historical reality. When examined through a Qur’an-centered perspective, it becomes clear that the essential criteria for leadership are not gender, but justice, competence, and wisdom.
The respectful mention of the Queen of Sheba in the Qur’an provides a significant example regarding women’s leadership. In Qur'an, Surah An-Naml (27:23), she is introduced as follows:
> “Indeed, I found a woman ruling over them, and she has been given of everything, and she has a magnificent throne.”
This verse demonstrates that a woman can successfully govern a nation and possess vast resources and authority. The Queen of Sheba—known as Bilqis—is portrayed as an intelligent, consultative, peaceful, and diplomatic leader. Instead of resorting to war, she chose dialogue with Prophet Solomon, and ultimately recognized the truth and believed. The Qur’an presents her attitude with appreciation; she is not criticized, but rather exemplified as a ruler of insight and sound judgment.
The Qur’an does not impose any gender condition for leadership. The criteria are always justice, merit, knowledge, and piety. When leadership responsibilities are described, no distinction is made between men and women. In this sense, leadership is a matter of competence. What matters is not whether one is male or female, but whether one acts according to the principles set by God.
Throughout history, both successful and unsuccessful leaders have existed among men and women alike. This clearly shows that success or failure is not determined by gender, but by character, knowledge, vision, and justice.
Successful Female Leaders
Angela Merkel led Germany for 16 years, ensuring economic stability and gaining public trust during crises. Her humanitarian stance during the refugee crisis and her modest lifestyle earned widespread respect.
Jacinda Ardern demonstrated compassionate leadership during the Christchurch attack and managed the pandemic effectively, establishing a strong connection with her people despite her young age.
The Harm of Unqualified Leadership
History also records many male leaders associated with oppression, corruption, and ظلم (injustice). Figures such as Muawiya I, Yazid I, Adolf Hitler, and Joseph Stalin exemplify how destructive leadership can be when devoid of merit. Such leaders often cannot tolerate criticism and may lead their societies into disaster. This again proves that the determining factor in leadership is not gender, but competence and moral integrity.
Qur’anic Perspective on Leadership
The Qur’an does not assign leadership exclusively to men. Instead, it establishes justice, wisdom, consultation, knowledge, and compassion as the fundamental criteria. The example of Bilqis clearly shows that a woman can be a successful and praiseworthy leader.
Another example is the wife of Pharaoh, Asiya, who stood against tyranny and demonstrated faith and moral courage. Despite living under an oppressive ruler, she chose justice and God’s pleasure over worldly power. This reflects that a woman can act with wisdom, conscience, and leadership even under extreme conditions.
Sociological Reality
The relatively small number of female leaders in history is largely a result of cultural norms and gender biases rather than any inherent inability. Women’s leadership has often been restricted or suppressed due to social structures. However, modern societies are increasingly recognizing and valuing women’s contributions in leadership roles across politics, education, business, and civil society.
A historical example is Elizabeth I, who ruled England with remarkable political intelligence and transformed it into a powerful naval state. Her leadership demonstrates that competence in governance transcends gender.
Conclusion
Based on both the Qur’an and historical evidence, it is clear that gender is not a barrier to leadership. What truly matters are qualities such as merit, justice, knowledge, and experience. Good or bad governance is not determined by whether a leader is male or female, but by how well they embody these values.
The example of Bilqis illustrates that women can be effective leaders who govern with wisdom, diplomacy, and justice. Leadership is ultimately shaped by a sense of responsibility toward the people. Beyond gender, a leader’s commitment to justice, integrity, and the well-being of society determines true success.
In essence, the one who should lead a nation is the one who fears God, governs with justice, and does not pursue personal gain.