Date of Award
2020
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Social Sciences
First Advisor
Fidalgo, Amanda
Area of Concentration
International and Area Studies
Abstract
This study explores how authoritarian leaders can use women’s descriptive and substantive representation to maintain power. I study this phenomenon by exploring the case of Nicaragua’s current autocratic regime under Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murrillo. Civilian dictatorships have to deal with threats from both the masses and the elite classes, and I examine how a government can manipulate women’s political representation to placate them both. Using Svolik’s (2012) concept of authoritarian control and authoritarian power sharing, I examine how descriptive representation can exert authoritarian control over the masses, and how substantive representation can facilitate authoritarian power sharing with elites. First, a regime can manipulate descriptive representation to create a larger narrative of gender equality to give the regime ideological and democratic legitimacy. This legitimacy can placate the masses and garner their support. I call this strategic gender composition. Second, a regime can manipulate substantive representation to accommodate the interests of elites and effectively placate them through power sharing with the regime. I call this strategic gender legislation. Nicaragua’s government engaging in strategic gender composition and legislation provides a thorough answer as to why a socialist party in office, a gender focused discourse, and high levels of women’s descriptive representation does not translate to positive women’s substantive representation in Nicaragua. In conclusion, although Ortega’s rhetoric and actions surrounding women’s participation in government has been to convince society that the government cares to better women’s lives, the incorporation of women in government has in fact never been to represent women’s interest, challenge gender roles, or better their lives.
Recommended Citation
Morales, Tirza, "La Nueva Sandinisma: How Women’s Political Representation Aids in Sustaining Nicaragua’s Current Dictatorship" (2020). Theses & ETDs. 6496.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/6496