La participación política representativa de mujeres rurales en los GAD Parroquiales del cantón Cuenca en el año 2023

Abstract

The political participation of women has historically been rendered invisible and hindered, resulting in significant inequalities compared to men. In this context, the political participation of rural women was investigated, analyzing their experiences within socio-cultural gender constructs, gender political perspectives, and power relations. This study aims to analyze the political participation experience of rural women, contributing to the struggle for their rights and freedoms. For a deeper understanding, a qualitative research approach was employed. This methodology included semi-structured interviews and focus groups to capture the voices of rural women to serve as collected data for corresponding scientific analysis. This methodology aided in understanding the political participation of rural women in the Cuenca canton in 2023. The research revealed a multifaceted dynamic in the political participation of rural women, with advancements in their struggles, but also persistent challenges. While some participants noted greater acceptance of women leaders in politics, others highlighted the persistence of gender stereotypes and the difficulty of balancing family roles with political responsibilities. The perception of community support varied, with cultural resistances and prejudices in some sectors.