proper political voice.

She made this speech as she was honoured for "service in the field of government and journalism,'' at the Women of Great Esteem Award at the United Nations in New York on Saturday.

The awards were established to recognise women who have "excelled beyond normal expectations in a multi-cultural society''.

Ms Smith praised role models from the world's first female ruler, Queen Ku-Baba of Kis, who lived in what is now modern day Iraq in 2,500 BC to Britain's Margaret Thatcher and Bermuda's Dame Lois Browne Evans.

But she said: "It is significant to note that globally, only ten percent of the members of legislative bodies, and an even lower percentage of ministerial positions, are now held by women.

"Without the active participation of women, and the incorporation of the woman's perspective at all levels of the decision-making process, it is unlikely that the goals of equality, development and peace will be achieved.

"I believe that the equal participation of women and men in decision-making strengthens democracy, promotes its proper functioning and provides a balance that more accurately reflects the composition of society.'' She said women comprise more than half the world's population, yet hold a mere one to three percent of top managerial positions.

"For women who experience racial discrimination, the percentage is even less.'' Obstacles to women's participation in political life included health and legal factors, access to education, cultural and religious restrictions and hurdles such as electoral systems.

Even those women who want to serve face obstacles ranging from: Prejudice and Stereotypes -- internalised and transmitted even by women themselves.

Lack of time and resources Lack of self-confidence "I have to admit that Bermuda, the mid-Atlantic Island that I so proudly serve as Premier, has not been spared these challenges,'' she said. "However, women are increasingly assuming leadership roles in every stratum of Bermudian life -- following the example of many towering Bermudian women of great esteem who have paved the way.''