On 6th December, Women on Boards Albania (WOB-AL) participated in a conference organized by UN Women, the Swedish Embassy, and the Ministry of Health and Social Protection in Albania. The event celebrated initiatives to combat violence against women and honored individuals and organizations contributing to a less violent and more equitable Albania.

The discussion during the conference focused primarily on physical and overt violence. It is equally critical, however, to address the less visible forms of violence that permeate our workplaces—particularly manifested or referenced as toxic leadership. This subtle yet systemic violence significantly undermines women’s opportunities to rise to leadership and decision-making roles in corporations, government, and beyond.

The Hidden Face of Violence: Toxic Leadership

Toxic leadership is not just bad management; it is a form of workplace violence that disproportionately affects women. It thrives where power dynamics, exclusion, and subtle discrimination prevail. These behaviors may include:

• Verbal abuse and condescension.

• Exclusion from critical meetings and decision-making processes.

• Manipulative tactics that undermine confidence and performance.

• Persistent bias that equates assertiveness in women with aggression.

Globally, nearly 50% of working women report experiencing harassment in the workplace (UN Women), and psychological violence accounts for a significant share of these cases. In Albania, where gender inequality remains entrenched, these issues are magnified. According to data from the World Bank, women hold only 9.8% of board seats in corporate Albania—a glaring disparity reflecting the systemic barriers women face.

Economic and Social Costs of Toxic Leadership

The cost of toxic leadership is immense—not just for individuals but for organizations and society.

Studies show that organizations with inclusive leadership are 21% more likely to outperform their peers (McKinsey, 2023).

Yet, when women are excluded from leadership roles due to toxic behaviors, organizations lose out on innovation, diverse perspectives, and better decision-making outcomes.

In Albania, the consequences are far-reaching. Exclusion from leadership roles perpetuates gender income gaps, reduces economic participation, and limits women’s influence in shaping policies and practices that could benefit society at large.

Women on Boards Albania: Leading the Charge for Change

At Women on Boards Albania (WOB-AL), we recognize that tackling violence against women must include addressing these corporate and institutional dynamics. Through advocacy, education, and collaboration, we aim to dismantle the structures that perpetuate toxic leadership and workplace violence.

Here’s how we are making an impact:

1. Advocacy for Policy Change:

We work to raise awareness about the effects of toxic leadership and advocate for workplace policies that enforce zero tolerance for discrimination, harassment, and verbal abuse.

2. Endow Women for Leadership:

Our programs provide women with the tools, skills, and confidence to navigate and counter toxic environments. We also help them prepare for leadership roles that can drive systemic change.

3. Creating Safe Networks:

Through mentorship and networking opportunities, we foster supportive spaces where women can share experiences, build resilience, and access professional growth opportunities.

4. Partnerships for Impact:

By collaborating with organizations like UN Women, we aim to integrate gender equality into corporate governance and amplify women’s voices at every level of decision-making.

A Call to Action: Transforming Workplaces Together

Breaking the cycle of workplace violence requires collective action. We urge leaders in business, governance, and civil society to commit to fostering inclusive, respectful, and equitable environments. Toxic leadership must be replaced with cultures of accountability and collaboration.

What can you do?

• Be a guardian and promotor of policies and practices that ensure healthy conversational intelligence and positive leadership.

• Prepare yourself to lead with generative energy – be driven by the creative force that connects and multiplies, that nurtures growth and renewal

• Join WOB-AL’s initiatives to mentor, empower, and advocate for women in Albania.

• Share this message with your networks to raise awareness about the hidden violence in workplaces.

Let us not underestimate the power of collective effort in transforming the workplace. When women lead with generative energy, they unlock potential that benefits not just themselves, but organizations and societies as a whole.

Together, we can shape a future where Albanian women thrive in boardrooms, decision-making positions, and beyond.

With solidarity and determination,

Women on Boards Albania

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Statistics to Note:

Only 9.8% of Board members in Albania are women (World Bank).

Organizations with inclusive cultures are 21% more likely to outperform their peers (McKinsey, 2023).

Globally, 50% of women face harassment at work, and many cases remain unreported (UN Women).

Join us in this mission.

Visit our website or connect with us on LinkedIn to learn more about how you can contribute to making the workplace in corporate Albania inclusive and empowering.