Does Quota System Influence Women’s Representation? Evidence from Tanzania

Abstract

Women’s representation in local government is a global development concern given their minority. In response to women’s under-representation in local governments, different nations have endorsed electoral quota, or special seats mechanism, to rectify the situation. However, the quota system has masked the governments by perceiving that gender representation will automatically be adhered to, and women’s empowerment and substantive representation enhanced. This study employed exploratory research design guided by qualitative and quantitative approaches to ascertain if this is the case. The qualitative approach included in-depth interviews (IDIs), focus group discussions (FGDs) and documentary review as techniques in collecting data, while a questionnaire was used in the quantitative method. The study involved a total of 610 respondents, including 321 females and 289 males. The findings revealed that the quota system remains as essential in enhancing women’s descriptive representation. However, the system is limited to women’s substantive representation given the stereotype perceptions implanted to women passing through such a mechanism. This situation favours the continuing male dominance and practice that influence gender inequality in decision-making. It also influences masculinity tendencies in local government structures that cement the marginalization of women’s descriptive representation and gender discrimination, hence limiting their effective participation. This has also led to less efforts to support women aspirants and decision-makers. Despite all these, however, the quota system has opened up opportunities for more women to access political power, learn political skills, and advance their interests.