35th Annual Student Research Conference
Factors Predicting Female Representation in National Legislatures
Hannah E. Rohm
Dr. Margaret Edwards, Faculty Mentor
An abundance of literature exists regarding what institutional, cultural, and socio-economic factors impact female representation in government the most. This research design uses a multivariate regression model to determine what factors predict female representation in national legislatures. I assess how religion, gender quotas, the Gender Inequality Index, list PR systems, and egalitarian attitudes influence the percentage of seats held by female-identifying members in the lower or single legislative house of European democracies. My findings show that socio-economic factors, as measured by the Gender Inequality Index, are a significant factor in predicting female representation. This study helps to better understand what factors are significant in impacting female representation and in what areas changes should be made to bridge gaps in representation.
Keywords: Female Representation, National Legislatures, Gender Inequality, Women and Politics, Socio-economic Factors, Elected Officals
Topic(s):Political Science
Women's and Gender Studies
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Session: 303-1
Location: SUB GEO B
Time: 1:15