WOMEN UNDERREPRESENTATION IN THE AKIMATS OF ASTANA: EXPLORING BARRIERS AND CHALLENGES
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Date
2024-04-05
Authors
Assykpayev, Sanzhar
Bakirova, Bibigul
Ualibek, Aigerim
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy
Abstract
Underrepresentation of women in civil service poses a great challenge for the inclusivity, gender equality, and political representation of women’s needs and interests in society. Cultural norms and societal pressures exacerbate the situation further limiting women employee’s career aspirations and advancements. In the presence of systematic barriers
perpetuating underrepresentation, promotion of policies that encourage women’s
participation are found to be an effective solution. This work explores the reasons and factors behind the underrepresentation of women in local governments through a qualitative case study of several akimats of Astana city. By interviewing representatives from local municipalities research reveals emerging themes from the experiences and challenges women employees face during their work and advancement to decision-making positions. Results of the study indicate that societal and cultural biases are prominent reasons behind the underrepresentation of women in akimats. Systematic pressure built on the base of male preference and historically developed assigned roles for women was found to be significant in defining the barriers women face during promotion to decision-making positions. Additionally, the study underlines the importance of domestic responsibilities in evaluating factors that influence women’s decision to pursue political careers in Astana akimats.
Description
Keywords
Type of access: Open access, Underrepresentation, Stereotypes, Akimat, Domestic responsibilities, Workplace Inequality, Astana, Women professionals
Citation
Assykpayev, S. Bakirova, B. Ualibek, A. (2024). Women Underrepresentation in the Akimats of Astana: exploring challenges and barriers. Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy