Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s influence beyond Barbados’ shores has again been recognised, with the island’s leader securing a place on the 2025 Forbes World’s 100 Most Powerful Women list. Ranked at No. 99, Mottley has now appeared on the prestigious list for the third consecutive year, joining a group of women whose decisions shape politics, business and philanthropy worldwide.

In its assessment, Forbes pointed to Mottley’s growing stature on the international stage, citing her outspoken advocacy on climate change, her diplomatic engagement and her leadership during one of the most significant constitutional changes in Barbados’ history. The publication noted that her profile has expanded well beyond domestic governance as she continues to influence global debates affecting small island developing states.

Forbes recalled that Mottley made history in 2018 when she was sworn in as Barbados’ first female prime minister. Her profile also highlighted her emergence as a leading voice on climate issues, referencing her address to the United Nations General Assembly in 2021, which the publication described as an “impassioned speech” urging the international community to act decisively on climate and financial reform.

That same year, her international standing was further cemented when the United Nations Environment Programme named her a Champion of the Earth for Policy Leadership. Forbes also underscored her role in guiding Barbados through its transition to a parliamentary republic, noting that under her administration the country removed the Queen of England as head of state in November 2021.

Mottley’s continued appearance on the Forbes list follows earlier inclusions in 2023 and 2024, reflecting what the magazine described as sustained global influence. Her work on climate finance, debt restructuring and economic equity has made her a central figure in international discussions, particularly those affecting vulnerable economies. In 2022, she was also named to TIME magazine’s TIME100 list of the world’s most influential people.

Her placement on the 2025 Forbes ranking situates her alongside leading global figures, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde and Japan’s first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, who occupy the top three positions.

Forbes’ 22nd annual ranking evaluates candidates based on money, media presence, impact and spheres of influence. This year’s list features 100 women from 17 countries who collectively command an estimated $37 trillion in economic power and influence the lives of more than a billion people.

The publication also traced Mottley’s political roots to her first ministerial appointment in 1994 as Minister of Education, Youth Affairs and Culture, marking the beginning of a career that has since elevated her to regional and global prominence.