Gender Quotas and Women's Political Representation in Nepal

Abstract

The study investigates the substantive representation of women in Nepali politics, focusing on the challenges faced by women parliamentarians despite the implementation of gender quotas. While quotas have increased descriptive representation at national and local levels, this numerical growth has not always led to substantial political influence. The study highlights obstacles such as patriarchal norms, political party dynamics, and traditional gender roles that prevent women from effectively advancing feminist policies. Key issues like the Citizenship Bill and the Domestic Violence Act illustrate how, despite having women in parliament, gender equality concerns often remain sidelined. Drawing on critical mass theory, the research suggests that while women’s collective presence has fostered greater political activism, entrenched male dominance still limits their ability to shape policy. The findings stress the importance of moving beyond numerical representation and addressing deeper structural challenges to enhance the substantive representation of women’s interests in Nepalese politics.