Political Representation and Empowerment: Women in Local Government Institutions in Bihar, India

The aim of the present study is to find out whether a quantitative rise in the representation of women in political decision-making can transform into qualitative changes in the participation of women, so that it can pave the way for political empowerment of women. The study develops a theoretical view on the multiple effects of gender quotas on empowerment and attempts to find out the factors that facilitate and restrain the entry and participation of women in political field. In order to achieve the aim of the study the following research questions are posed:

1- What are the effects of gender quotas? What are the impacts of gender quotas on the political attitude and activities of women representatives?

2- What are the factors that restrain or facilitate the entry and participation of women in the Panchayats of Bihar, India?