The multiple gender barriers faced by women in politics

This study aims to analyze the gender barriers to female participation in Brazilian politics. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews with 22 women from the Southeast and 18 from the Northeast who work in the political arena. The dialogues were analyzed using Gioia’s method, and the results show that women face psychosocial, cultural, and party-related barriers, highlighting how gender policies remain insufficient, making it difficult for women to enter, stay, and attract others to a political career. Additionally, this research contributes to the theoretical and practical fields regarding women in politics, helping to understand the challenges faced in the Brazilian context and emphasizing how experiences of violence lead to resistance to political engagement and physical and mental health issues.

Keywords:
women in politics; gender barriers; political violence