This study examines the evolution of gender diversity in corporate boards of publicly traded companies, focusing on the impact of European and global legislative and non-legislative policies. The analysis highlights the effectiveness of binding gender quotas in increasing female representation on boards, particularly in non-executive positions, as observed in countries like France and Portugal. However, significant challenges persist in executive and leadership roles, emphasizing the need for comprehensive and integrated measures to address structural and cultural barriers. This work contributes to the literature by providing a detailed historical analysis of gender diversity initiatives from 1957 to 2023 and offering insights for future policymaking and corporate governance.