Raising Their Voices Against Patriarchy: The Dynamic Use of Women's Leadership Styles for Progressing Gender Equality in Unions

Paula Cornejo‐Abarca, Sebastian M. Ugarte and Angel Martin‐Caballero

Gender, Work and Organization, 2025, vol. 32, issue 4, 1457-1469

Abstract: This study delves into the nuances of women's leadership skills and tactics within Chilean unions, assessing their progress in gender equality bargaining following the 2017 quota reform for women union leaders. Focusing on banking, retail, and mining industries, it tackles internal and external equality dimensions, challenged by an evident power asymmetry between men and women and the foundations of a patriarchal system. Through qualitative, semi‐structured interviews with unionist women and experts, the research unveils the dynamic and instrumental use of leadership styles (“heroic” and “post‐heroic”) employed by women to navigate these challenges. Activism, empowerment, knowledge acquisition, confrontation, and collaboration emerge as crucial components. The paper advocates for a holistic approach beyond quotas, emphasizing the need for sustained gender progress in Chilean unions. The comparative analysis enriches academic discourse, amplifying diverse women's leadership experiences and their impactful roles in challenging gender injustices and reshaping organizational culture.

Date: 2025
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