A list of the world’s 100 most powerful women of 2020 from 30 countries in politics, entertainment, business, and more.was made public by Forbes on Tuesday, December 8..
German Chancellor Angela Merkel claimed the No. 1 spot for the tenth year in a row, with European Central Bank head Christine Lagarde occupying second slot for the second consecutive year.
US Vice President-elect Kamala Harris made the list for the first time, debuting in the No. 3 slot. Forbes said her “rapid ascension in U.S. politics” has “catapulted” her onto the list.
Ursula von der Leyen, the first female president of the European Commission, and Melinda Gates, co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation completed the top five positions.
Gates maintained her title as the most powerful woman in philanthropy, according to Forbes.
On the Forbes list this year, there are 17 newcomers including number 67, Mackenzie Scott, formerly Bezos, who last year pledged to give away half of her money to charity after her divorce from Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos was finalized.
The list also features some big names from the music industry, with pop sensations Rihanna and Beyoncé occupying the 69th and 72nd spots respectively.
Taylor Swift weighed in behind at 82, following the success of her surprise album Folklore, which sold 1 million units.
