Thailand's first female prime minister will this week join a long list of Asian women leaders whose power stems from family ties, with analysts saying the trend is a mixed blessing for equality.
Analysts believe the phenomenon has much more to do with the prevalence of political dynasties in the region than improvements in gender equality.
Paul Chambers, senior research fellow at Payap University in the Thai city of Chiang Mai, said traditionally Asian women were "not supposed to be political leaders" in the region's "macho", patriarchal culture.
But "under-developed" political parties that enable wealthy families to dominate have created opportunities for women -- as a last resort.
For more reading, please visit: AFP
Thailand's first female prime minister will this week join a long list of Asian women leaders whose power stems from family ties, with analysts saying the trend is a mixed blessing for equality.
Analysts believe the phenomenon has much more to do with the prevalence of political dynasties in the region than improvements in gender equality.
Paul Chambers, senior research fellow at Payap University in the Thai city of Chiang Mai, said traditionally Asian women were "not supposed to be political leaders" in the region's "macho", patriarchal culture.
But "under-developed" political parties that enable wealthy families to dominate have created opportunities for women -- as a last resort.
For more reading, please visit: AFP