Descriptive and Substantive Representation in Latin America. Advances and Challenges

Abstract

This forum addresses a topic that is not only highly relevant in academic discussions but also crucial for the proper functioning of democracies: the representation of women in Latin American democracies. We approach this issue from two perspectives. First, we analyze the advances and challenges of descriptive representation, specifically focusing on the presence of women in parliaments. Second, we examine substantive representation: how the varying presence of women in parliaments impacts the attention given to women's interests. The papers highlight a significant and growing, yet still insufficient, presence of women in Latin American parliaments and their leadership roles, emphasizing the importance of affirmative mechanisms. It also demonstrates the role of women as a group in advocating for laws on various issues that concern women, extending beyond what are typically considered ‘feminist’ issues