Gender, Representation, and Democracy

This panel brings together a diverse group of scholars researching the intersection of gender and politics across various regions. As global political landscapes shift, understanding the role of gender in these dynamics becomes increasingly crucial. The panel examines three key questions that highlight the complexities of this relationship. First, this panel explores the connection between gender and the rise of right-wing populism in democracies. This phenomenon has been observed in numerous countries, where populist leaders often leverage gendered narratives to galvanize support. It seeks to enhance understanding of how gender dynamics influence the strategies employed by these political movements and their implications for democratic processes. Second, the panel investigates the historical and contemporary contexts in which women’s rights are undermined—such as through environmental changes, structural barriers, militarization, and gender-based violence—and their long-term political ramifications. By analyzing historical precedents alongside present-day challenges, we aim to identify patterns and shifts that deepen our understanding of women’s rights. By analyzing historical precedents alongside present-day challenges, we seek to identify patterns and shifts that inform our understanding of women’s rights. Finally, the panel will examine the effects of women’s representation—both descriptive and symbolic—on citizens’ voting behavior. This discussion focuses on the complex relationship between women’s representation and gender norms. It will also explore how institutional contexts and reforms can foster greater support for gender-equality policies. The studies featured in the panel employ a wide array of methods, including survey experiments, natural experiments, and observational studies using novel data. Together, these discussions will deepen our understanding of the interplay between gender and politics, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for advancing gender equality.