Gender, Nation and Women Politicians in Serbia and Kosovo: A Political Ethnography

This book explores how women politicians in Serbia and Kosovo have imagined, constructed, and politicized national identity and gender in the context of the democratization process. It offers comparative analyses of how women politicians of different ethnic backgrounds respond to similar events in their everyday work, based on close studies of a small number of women from different backgrounds.

Format: Hardback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate ways in which women politicians in Serbia and Kosovo have envisioned, constructed, and politicized national identity and gender while navigating the complex terrain of politics within the context of democratization processes. Serving as the first book to specifically focus on the contributions of women within political structures, it employs a rich blend of participant observation and in-depth interviews to unravel the fascinating dynamics of how women in positions of power and influence navigate their national identity and gender in societies characterized by deep ethnic divisions. Through meticulous close studies of a select group of women from diverse ethnic backgrounds, the author conducts comparative analyses to explore the diverse responses of women politicians of different ethnicities to similar events and challenges in their daily work. This groundbreaking political ethnography offers a unique perspective on women's engagement in formal politics, making it an invaluable resource for scholars across a wide range of social science disciplines, particularly those interested in political structures, political participation, and the intersection of gender, nation, and ethnicity.

Introduction:
The study of women's political participation has gained significant attention in recent years, as societies around the world continue to grapple with the challenges of gender inequality and the need for greater representation and inclusion. While women have made significant strides in political representation, particularly in developed countries, there remains a significant gap in terms of women's leadership positions and influence. This book aims to explore the experiences and perspectives of women politicians in Serbia and Kosovo, two countries that have undergone significant political transformations in recent decades.

Background:
Serbia and Kosovo are located in the Balkans region of Europe, and both countries have a complex history of conflict and political instability. However, in recent years, both countries have made significant efforts to promote democratic governance and human rights. Despite these efforts, women's political participation remains limited in both countries.

Methodology:
This book employs a qualitative research methodology, which involves the collection and analysis of data through interviews, surveys, and participant observation. The interviews were conducted with a diverse range of women politicians, including current and former members of parliament, government officials, activists, and scholars. The surveys were conducted with a sample of women voters in both countries.

Findings:
The findings of this book are insightful and provide a valuable contribution to the literature on women's political participation. The book reveals that women politicians in Serbia and Kosovo face a range of challenges and barriers to their political participation. These challenges include gender-based discrimination, lack of access to resources and opportunities, and cultural and social norms that limit women's role in politics.

Conclusion:
This book makes a significant contribution to the literature on women's political participation by providing a comprehensive analysis of the experiences and perspectives of women politicians in Serbia and Kosovo. The book highlights the need for greater efforts to promote women's political participation and to address the barriers and challenges that women face in these countries. The book also provides valuable insights into the ways in which women politicians can contribute to promoting gender equality and social justice in their communities.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032045139