GENDER POLITICS AND POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN NIGERIA: A CASE STUDY OF ENUGU STATE 2018-2023
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style: Available
- Recommended for : Student Researchers
- NGN 3000
Background of the study
Gender politics in Nigeria are deeply entrenched within societal norms, cultural traditions, and institutional structures. Historically, Nigeria has been characterized by patriarchal systems where power and decision-making are predominantly controlled by men. This has resulted in systemic gender disparities in various aspects of life, including politics. Despite constitutional provisions and international commitments promoting gender equality, women remain significantly underrepresented in political leadership positions across all levels of government (Onuoha, 2018).
Political participation, a fundamental aspect of democracy, encompasses various activities such as voting, contesting for political office, and engaging in political processes. In Nigeria, political participation is influenced by factors such as ethnicity, religion, socio-economic status, and gender. While Nigeria has made strides in consolidating its democratic institutions since its return to civilian rule in 1999, there are persistent challenges related to inclusivity and equal participation, particularly regarding gender (Bunce & Wolchik, 2017).
The underrepresentation of women in Nigerian politics is a multifaceted issue stemming from socio-cultural, economic, and institutional barriers. Cultural norms often dictate prescribed roles for women, relegating them to domestic spheres and limiting their involvement in public affairs. Additionally, economic disparities and lack of access to resources further constrain women's ability to engage in politics effectively (Onuoha, 2018). Furthermore, institutional factors such as discriminatory laws, party structures, and electoral systems perpetuate gender inequalities within the political arena (Anifowose, 2015).
Enugu state, located in southeastern Nigeria, serves as a microcosm for understanding the dynamics of gender politics and political participation within the Nigerian context. Enugu state, like the rest of Nigeria, grapples with issues of gender inequality and underrepresentation of women in politics. Despite being one of the thirty-six states in Nigeria, Enugu state reflects similar patterns of gender disparities in political leadership positions (Nwoye, 2019).
This study is potential to contribute to existing literature on gender politics and political participation in Nigeria, with a specific focus on Enugu state. By conducting a case study, this research aims to provide nuanced insights into the socio-cultural, economic, and institutional factors that influence gender dynamics within the political sphere. Additionally, the study seeks to identify strategies and interventions that can enhance women's political participation and promote gender equality in Enugu state and beyond.
1.2 Statement of the problem
Gender politics and political participation have been subjects of significant interest and concern globally, particularly in regions like Nigeria where gender disparities persist in various spheres of life, including politics. Despite efforts to promote gender equality and enhance women's participation in politics, disparities persist, raising questions about the underlying factors influencing political engagement and representation in Nigeria. This study aims to investigate the dynamics of gender politics and political participation in Enugu State from 2018 to 2023, shedding light on the challenges, opportunities, and implications for gender equality and democratic governance.
1.3 Objective of the study
- To examine the socio-cultural factors shaping gender politics in Enugu state from 2018 - 2023.
- To analyze the institutional barriers to women's political participation in Enugu state from 2018 - 2023.
- To assess the impact of gender disparities on democratic governance in Enugu state from 2018 - 2023.
1.4 Research Questions
- What are the socio-cultural factors shaping gender politics in Enugu state from 2018 - 2023?
- What are the institutional barriers to women's political participation in Enugu state from 2018 - 2023?
- What is the impact of gender disparities on democratic governance in Enugu state from 2018 - 2023?
1.5 Research hypotheses
Null Hypothesis (H0): There is no significant relationship between gender politics and political participation in Enugu state Nigeria from 2018-2023
Alternative Hypothesis (H1): There is a significant relationship between gender politics and political participation in Enugu state Nigeria from 2018-2023
1.6 Significance of the study
This research will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on gender politics and political participation in Nigeria by providing insights into the specific challenges and opportunities within Enugu State. By focusing on a single state over a five-year period, the study will offer a detailed understanding of the dynamics shaping political engagement and representation at the sub-national level. The findings will inform policy interventions aimed at promoting gender equality, enhancing women's political participation, and strengthening democratic governance in Enugu State and Nigeria as a whole.
1.7 Scope of the study
This study focuses to examine the socio-cultural factors shaping gender politics in Enugu state from 2018 - 2023, analyze the institutional barriers to women's political participation in Enugu state from 2018 - 2023, and assess the impact of gender disparities on democratic governance in Enugu state from 2018 - 2023. Hence Politicians and Political Leaders, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Advocacy Groups, Community Leaders and Activists, and Women Politicians and Aspiring Candidates in Enugu state shall serve as enrolled participants for this study.
1.8 Limitation of the study
Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraint are:
Time: The researcher encountered time constraint as the researcher had to carry out this research along side other academic activities such as attending lectures and other educational activities required of her.
Finance: The researcher incurred more financial expenses in carrying out this study such as typesetting, printing, sourcing for relevant materials, literature, or information and in the data collection process.
Availability of Materials: The researcher encountered challenges in sourcing for literature in this study. The scarcity of literature on the subject due to the nature of the discourse was a limitation to this study.
1.9 Definition of terms
Gender:
Gender refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviors, attributes, and expectations that a given society considers appropriate for men, women, and non-binary individuals. It encompasses cultural norms, values, and beliefs regarding masculinity and femininity, which influence individuals' opportunities, experiences, and interactions within society.
Gender Equality:
Gender equality refers to the principle of ensuring that individuals of all genders have equal rights, opportunities, and access to resources and decision-making processes. It entails challenging and dismantling discriminatory practices, norms, and structures that perpetuate gender-based inequalities and injustices.
Gender Equity:
Gender equity entails the fair distribution of resources, opportunities, and benefits among individuals of different genders, taking into account their specific needs, circumstances, and capabilities. It aims to address existing disparities and promote justice and inclusivity within social, economic, and political systems.
Empowerment:
Empowerment involves the process of enabling individuals, particularly those from marginalized or disadvantaged groups, to exercise agency, autonomy, and control over their lives and environments. It entails providing access to resources, knowledge, skills, and opportunities that facilitate self-determination and collective action.
Women's Political Participation:
Women's political participation refers to the involvement of women in political processes, institutions, and decision-making structures at local, national, and international levels. It encompasses activities such as voting, standing for election, holding public office, and engaging in political activism and advocacy to advance women's rights and interests.
Political Representation:
Political representation involves the selection and appointment of individuals or groups to act on behalf of others within political institutions and decision-making bodies. It entails ensuring that diverse voices, perspectives, and interests are adequately represented and advocated for in the formulation and implementation of policies and laws.
Gender Politics:
Gender politics refers to the processes, strategies, and dynamics through which power relations, opportunities, and resources are negotiated, contested, and exercised within the context of gender identities and roles. It involves the ways in which gender influences decision-making, distribution of resources, and access to political participation within societal structures.
Political Participation:
Political participation encompasses the range of activities through which individuals engage with the political system, including voting, campaigning, running for office, advocacy, and involvement in political organizations. It denotes the active involvement of citizens in shaping the policies, processes, and institutions of governance.
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