On July 6, 2009, Jadranka Kosor was sworn in as Prime Minister of Croatia, making her the first woman to lead the country since its independence in 1991. She assumed office at age 51 following the unexpected resignation of her predecessor, Ivo Sanader, who stepped down just weeks earlier citing personal reasons. Kosor's appointment marked a significant milestone for women in Croatian politics and came at a critical moment as the nation navigated economic challenges and prepared for European Union accession negotiations.

Kosor brought substantial political experience to the position. A former journalist and editor, she had served in various government roles including Minister of Family, Veterans Affairs, and Intergenerational Solidarity before becoming Deputy Prime Minister. Her appointment was approved by parliament with broad support across multiple political parties, signaling confidence in her ability to stabilize the government during a transitional period. At the time of her swearing-in, Croatia was still recovering from the global financial crisis and working toward its goal of EU membership, which would be achieved in 2013.

During her tenure from 2009 to 2011, Kosor focused on anti-corruption measures, economic reform, and advancing Croatia's European integration agenda. She maintained stability in the cabinet while dealing with significant economic pressures and managing the ongoing legacy of the 1990s war. Though her presidency ended after just two years when she was succeeded by Zoran Milanovic, Kosor remained a prominent political figure in Croatian public life. Her groundbreaking achievement as the first female prime minister opened doors for women in Croatian politics, though no woman has yet replicated her ascent to the country's highest executive office in the years since.