Why Do Lebanese Women Remain Underrepresented in Politics?

Abstract

Lebanese women have struggled with social injustices on a daily basis for decades. They have been underrepresented in the political arena and kept out of the decision-making process. However, they were able to increase their participation in other areas of society such as civil movements and the workforce. As such, this study focused on understanding the reason behind this underrepresentation by analyzing women’s behavior. It hypothesized that the sectarian structure of the Lebanese political system has hindered women’s representation. A comparative analysis was conducted focusing on women’s activities in the October 17 revolution, the labor force, civil society, and the political sector. After extensive research and interpretation, the findings corresponded with the hypothesis suggested where it was concluded that the main cause that lays behind women’s underrepresentation is related to sectarianism.