Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
https://doi.org/10.62574/bjjg8w84
37
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
edgarpzh@gmail.com
Universidad Estatal de Milagro, Milagro, Guayas, Ecuador
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2620-6993
ABSTRACT
The aim of this research is to analyse women's political participation from a constitutional
perspective in Ecuador. This study embraces a descriptive documentary methodology with a
bibliographic design. The analytical-synthetic approach stands as the compass that guides the
exploration of information through the vast sea of 15 research papers, each representing a
beacon on the horizon of scientific understanding. Ecuador's 2008 Constitution, while
incorporating advanced principles of non-discrimination on the basis of gender identity, faces
challenges in its effective implementation. Cultural resistance and lack of collective action
perpetuate gender-based violence, highlighting the need for profound cultural change that
transcends constitutional recognition. Women's participation in the Ecuadorian legislative agenda
reflects a complex dynamic where, despite numerical advances, challenges persist in the effective
promotion of the gender agenda.
Descriptors: drinking water; water supply; public utilities. (Source: UNESCO Thesaurus).
RESUMEN
La investigación tiene por objetivo analizar la participación política de la mujer desde una visión
constitucional en Ecuador. Este estudio abraza una metodología descriptiva documental con
diseño bibliográfico. El enfoque analítico-sintético se erige como la brújula que guía la exploración
de información por el vasto mar de 15 trabajos de investigación, cada uno representando un faro
en el horizonte del entendimiento científico. La Constitución de Ecuador de 2008, aunque
incorpora principios avanzados en cuanto a no discriminación por identidad de género, se
enfrenta a desafíos en su implementación efectiva. La resistencia cultural y la falta de acciones
colectivas perpetúan la violencia de género, resaltando la necesidad de un cambio cultural
profundo que trascienda el reconocimiento constitucional. La participación de las mujeres en la
agenda legislativa ecuatoriana refleja una compleja dinámica donde, a pesar de avances
numéricos, persisten desafíos en la promoción efectiva de la agenda de género.
Descriptores: agua potable; abastecimiento de agua; servicio de utilidad pública. (Fuente:
Tesauro UNESCO).
Received: 13/09/2023. Revised: 14/10/2023. Approved: 03/11/2023. Published: 01/01/2024
Research articles section
Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
38
INTRODUCTION
In the journey towards the consolidation of equitable societies, the recognition
and empowerment of women in the political sphere emerges as a crucial indicator
of a nation's democratic health. In the specific context of Ecuador, a country
steeped in rich cultural diversity and rooted in its constitutional values, a dynamic
scenario unfolds in which women's political participation emerges as a nodal point
for reflection. This article ventures to explore the intricacies of women's political
participation in Ecuador from an intrinsically constitutional perspective.
The Magna Carta of 2008, marking a milestone in Ecuador's constitutional history,
enshrined fundamental principles of equality and non-discrimination. However,
despite these advances, women continue to face barriers to their full insertion in
the political sphere. This study aims to analyse the tensions inherent in the
application of these constitutional precepts, unravelling the challenges that
persist and proposing possible routes to strengthen women's political
participation in the current context.
Through a detailed examination of the relevant constitutional provisions, we seek
not only to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the legal framework, but also
to understand how it manifests itself in the political reality of the country. In this
journey, we will immerse ourselves in the experiences of women who challenge
the constraints, thus contributing to the evolution of a more inclusive and
representative democracy.
This article stands as an invitation to reflect on the imperative need to materialise
constitutional principles into tangible practices, raising the voice and participation
of women to a level where their presence is not only recognised, but also
determinant in the construction of Ecuador's political future.
Thus, at the heart of the Ecuadorian Constitution lies an unwavering commitment
to equality and non-discrimination, outlining a path towards a more just society.
However, this constitutional commitment has unleashed an intriguing and
complex dilemma: women's political participation. This article ventures to unravel
Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
39
the layers of this issue from a constitutional perspective, where the legal text
becomes the fabric of the struggle for gender equality in the Ecuadorian political
arena.
This article metaphorically constitutes a journey through the written lines of the
Magna Carta of 2008, where abstract principles come to life in the concrete
experiences of women who challenge the conventions. Ecuador, a land of cultural
diversity and unwavering constitutional spirit, stands as a fascinating laboratory
where egalitarian aspirations intertwine with stark political reality.
This analysis does not limit itself to deciphering the legal lexicon, but seeks to
understand the resonance of these principles in women's daily struggle to occupy
decision-making spaces. How do constitutional words translate into everyday
political practice? What challenges persist in women's political participation and
how can they be overcome?
Through a close examination of constitutional provisions, this article aims to shed
light on the complex landscape of women's political participation in Ecuador.
Beyond the words on paper, it will explore the nuances of a democracy that seeks
to redefine itself, where women, defying horizons, stand as agents of change in
the construction of a more egalitarian and representative Ecuador.
In this dialogue between the Constitution and women's experiences, the cracks
in the system will be revealed, but also the opportunities for transformation.
Because, at the end of the day, this article is not just an academic analysis, but
an echo of the voices of women who, from a constitutional perspective, weave a
narrative of resistance and transformation into the political fabric of Ecuador.
Based on the above, the research aims to analyse women's political participation
from a constitutional perspective in Ecuador.
Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
40
METHOD
Navigating the pages of knowledge, this study embraces a descriptive
documentary methodology with bibliographic design. The analytic-synthetic
approach stands as the compass guiding the exploration of information through
the vast sea of 15 research papers, each representing a beacon on the horizon
of scientific understanding.
The population of this research odyssey consisted of 15 previously selected
research works, serving as portals to different corners of scientific knowledge.
These works, carefully chosen for their relevance and representativeness, form
the informative repertoire from which the crucial data for the construction of the
theoretical scaffolding are extracted.
The data collection process was a meticulous act of critical and systematised
reading. Each of the 15 works has been broken down, analysed and classified
according to predetermined criteria in terms of women's political participation
from a constitutional perspective in Ecuador. The application of the analytical
method made it possible to distil the essential elements, identifying patterns and
divergences.
The tools for this journey included analysis pencils and synthesis notebooks.
Matrices and conceptual diagrams were used to capture the interrelationships
between the different works, thus weaving a web of understanding that captured
the very essence of the research.
The data analysis was carried out through the synthetic method, seeking to
construct a coherent tapestry that integrates the diverse voices of the selected
works. This process allowed us not only to identify convergences and
divergences, but also to discern trends and gaps in the scientific landscape on
our topic of study.
In the course of this exploration, scientific integrity was guaranteed and the
intellectual property of the authors was respected. Each finding was accurately
Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
41
attributed to its original source, and honesty in the interpretation of the data was
ensured.
In summary, this synthetic-analytic method applied to a bibliographic population
of 15 research papers not only illuminates the understanding of a vital topic, but
also provides a navigational model for future scientific explorations in this vast
and exciting ocean of knowledge.
ANALYSIS OF THE RESULTS
The following political scenarios for Ecuadorian women are highlighted:
Discussing Afro-Ecuadorian Women's Political Participation
In the complex tapestry of political participation, Afro-Ecuadorian women emerge
as agents of change, challenging pre-established narratives and contributing to
the reconfiguration of the Ecuadorian political landscape. In this discussion
section, we will explore the key dimensions that delineate their political
participation, reflecting on achievements, persistent challenges and the pathways
towards a more inclusive democracy.
Afro-Ecuadorian women have made a significant mark on the country's politics,
standing out for their community engagement and inspirational leadership.
Discussing their achievements involves recognising the courage of those who
have broken barriers to take up political roles, marking milestones that defy
historical invisibility. From local leadership to national contributions, these women
have forged a path that deserves to be celebrated and amplified.
However, Afro-Ecuadorian women's political participation remains a challenging
terrain, permeated by intersecting racial and gender discrimination. Systemic
challenges, from lack of proportional representation to the persistence of
stereotypes, demand critical discussion. Analysing these obstacles is essential to
devising effective strategies to pave the way for more equitable political
participation.
The discussion is enriched by exploring concrete strategies that could catalyse
meaningful change. From strengthening political education to implementing
Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
42
affirmative policies, each strategy must be contextualised and designed to
address the specific barriers faced by Afro-Ecuadorian women. In discussing
these possible solutions, we seek to chart a practical roadmap towards expanding
their political participation.
The political participation of Afro-Ecuadorian women is fundamental to the
construction of an authentic and representative democracy. By reflecting on their
achievements, challenges and future strategies, we contribute to the ongoing
dialogue on diversity and inclusion in the Ecuadorian political spectrum. In this
debate, we find the necessary energy to chart a collective path towards an
Ecuador where all voices, regardless of their origin, find resonance and power in
the corridors of power.
The previous section highlights the essence of the right to participation as an
open door to equal opportunities and conditions for both men and women,
including those belonging to Afro-Ecuadorian communities. However, it highlights
with concern that this right remains limited for women, pointing to crucial
deficiencies in information and access to different spaces for participation.
A key aspect that emerges is the intrinsic connection between Afro-Ecuadorian
women's political participation and the social struggles they have faced. From
discrimination based on gender and ethnicity to the defence of collective rights
such as land, property and education, these women have charted a solid path in
the political and social sphere, challenging systemic injustices. The political and
social trajectory of Afro-Ecuadorian women highlights their resilience and
determination in comparison to other women in the country.
In this context, the discussion emphasises the imperative need to strengthen the
presence of Afro-Ecuadorian women in decision-making spaces. The allocation
of specific financial resources to promote their participation rights is advocated,
proposing initiatives such as workshops, forums, training and leadership schools.
This strategy seeks to dispel fear and overcome the daily limitations they face,
allowing them to emerge from anonymity and assume active roles in shaping the
country's political landscape.
Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
43
The discussion culminates in the importance of recognising and strengthening
the active participation of Afro-Ecuadorian women at all levels of society. It calls
for the implementation of concrete measures and specific budgets that promote
equal opportunities, thus rejecting historical invisibility and placing these women
at the centre of decision-making processes. Ultimately, this analysis proposes not
only a call to action but also the creation of an inclusive space where Afro-
Ecuadorian women are not only recipients of rights, but active and fundamental
agents in the construction of a more equitable and just Ecuador (Espinoza, 2022).
Women's electoral participation in Ecuador
Based on the work of (Silva-Chicaíza, 2014), it is stated that the 2008 Constitution
of Ecuador marked a milestone by establishing new guidelines, prioritising
inclusion as a fundamental value in the new institutionality. However, inclusion
goes beyond the formulation of policies on paper; its success lies in the effective
implementation and guarantee of equitable participation, especially for historically
marginalised groups.
The normative framework, particularly Article 61.7, establishes the right of
Ecuadorians to participate in public jobs and functions in a transparent and
inclusive manner. Furthermore, the Organic Law on Elections and Political
Organisations, the Code of Democracy, imposes parity and alternation in lists and
leadership. Despite these advances, substantial challenges remain in terms of
parity representation in practice.
Legislation requiring parity and alternation on political lists does not automatically
guarantee equal representation in decision-making. The predominant position of
men at the top of lists limits women's opportunities to access leadership positions.
The open list system and the phenomenon of "plancha" voting contribute to
maintaining this dynamic, as more than 70 per cent of the electorate votes for all
candidates on a single list.
The Ecuadorian electoral system, based on the rule of one voter equals one vote
and using methods such as D'Hondt and Webster, presents challenges for parity
representation. The continuous divisors formula favours majority political
Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
44
organisations and reduces the representation of minority groups, including
women. Small constituencies also contribute to the difficulty for women's political
participation.
It is essential to address these systemic gaps through electoral reforms that
promote true parity of representation. Revising seat allocation methods and
constituency size could be a key step in overcoming current inequalities. In
addition, continued efforts are needed to change entrenched cultural perceptions
that hinder equal access to politics for women.
Despite legislative advances, effective implementation of inclusion in Ecuadorian
politics faces significant challenges. Reforms to the electoral system and a
comprehensive approach that addresses both cultural and structural barriers are
required. Building a truly inclusive democracy demands a continued commitment
to gender equality and the active participation of all sectors of society (Ortiz-Ortiz,
2020).
On the other hand, the work of (Trujillo-Guerrero, 2018), considers that from
granting women the optional vote in 1929 to the quota and gender parity laws of
today, Ecuador has experienced a significant evolution in women's political
participation. However, this evolution has not guaranteed full and effective
representation at the different levels of political power.
Ecuador's legislative history shows remarkable advances from the inclusion of
the optional vote to the reforms that introduced quotas and gender parity.
However, the lack of equity in representation persists, especially in the number
of women in the National Assembly, where the figures have not exceeded 38 per
cent in the last general elections. The structure of electoral lists, where men lead
in most cases, creates inequalities in representation. The lack of internal
democracy in political parties and the prevalence of male candidates at the top
of the lists affects the achievement of gender parity, leaving women at a
disadvantage (Garzón-Sherdek, et al. 2022).
Despite advances in numerical representation, substantial gaps persist in the
legislative agenda. The passage of key laws, such as the law against gender-
Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
45
based violence, is affected by the lack of priority and articulation in addressing
women's specific demands. The formation of a parliamentary group for women's
rights is a positive step, but more momentum is needed to materialise an effective
agenda (Goyes, 2013).
The persistence of macho attitudes and the perceived need to adopt masculine
behaviours to gain political support reveal deep-rooted cultural challenges. In
addition, structural factors such as educational inequality and limited access to
resources also affect women's sustained political participation. Despite these
challenges, women demonstrate leadership and mobilisation capacity. It is crucial
to strengthen participatory mechanisms from both political organisations and
social collectives and organisations. Collaboration between different actors,
including the state, society and the family, must be based on clear objectives and
aligned with international standards to advance gender equality.
The progressive involvement of women in the development of public policies with
a gender perspective is essential. To achieve this, greater articulation of the
women's movement at the national level is required, ensuring effective
representation and proposing an agenda that is coherent with women's needs.
Education, equal access to resources and the strengthening of participatory
mechanisms are key to overcoming the barriers that still persist on the road to full
and equal political participation.
Women's participation in the Ecuadorian legislative agenda
Based on the work of (Arévalo-Jaramillo, 2022), the analysis of the conditions
that favour a legislative agenda that incorporates issues of interest to women and
gender equality in Ecuador reveals a series of complex dynamics. Although
gender issues are marginal in parliamentary debate, women's bills have achieved
an astonishing 41.07% approval rate, highlighting their relevance and success in
the legislative process.
Contrary to common belief, the presence of women in parliament does not
automatically guarantee the inclusion of gender issues in the legislative agenda.
Although women can contribute to the recognition of the importance of these
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Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
46
issues, they are not a decisive element in explaining the approval or presentation
of initiatives. This finding highlights the need for specific strategies to promote the
inclusion of these issues in the debate (Arboleda, 2014).
In the Ecuadorian context, right-wing parties, especially the PSC, stand out as
the main proponents of laws in favour of women's rights. The successful
presentation of legislative initiatives is linked to the ability to count on votes for
their approval, and this support has been evidenced in legislative periods where
the party had a parliamentary majority.
Contrary to what might be expected, both the executive branch and parliamentary
committees do not show a direct interest in women's rights. While executives may
control the legislative agenda on economic or political issues, gender equality
tends to be driven by individual legislators. The lack of direct interest from these
entities highlights the need for specific strategies to place the gender agenda at
the centre of priorities.
The observation of cooperative strategies among women legislators, such as the
gender alliance, highlights the importance of collective action to increase the
chances of success in the political arena. Cooperation among women, identified
in previous studies in other contexts, is presented as an effective strategy for
advancing the gender legislative agenda.
Despite the increase in the number of women in the Ecuadorian legislature,
trends in advancing the gender agenda remain limited. It is essential that the
gender agenda be an issue of interest to the state and that it involves other actors,
such as the executive and the commissions, which so far have not played a
relevant role in this issue. The findings presented indicate the need for a broader
research agenda. The relationship with social actors, the role of legislative
advisors in addressing the gender agenda and analysis at the sub-national level
are crucial areas that need to be further explored. Investigating sub-national
contexts, where information is even more limited, can provide new insights and
reveal key actors in advancing the gender agenda.
Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
47
In summary, while there are advances in women's representation in the
Ecuadorian legislature and high chances of success for women's rights initiatives,
challenges and limitations in advancing the gender agenda remain. Specific
strategies and the active participation of diverse actors are essential to overcome
these barriers and achieve substantive and equitable representation.
Women, constitution and interculturality in Ecuador
In proportion to the work of (Llicachi-Guzñay, 2018), an analysis of the 2008
Ecuadorian Constitution is presented, which reveals ambivalence in its
implementation, especially with regard to gender and sexual orientation. Although
significant progress has been made, notable challenges remain in translating
constitutional provisions into substantial changes in the reality of historically
excluded groups.
The 2008 Constitution incorporates innovations by explicitly recognising non-
discrimination on the basis of gender identity, establishing a legal framework that
prohibits discrimination and punishes discriminatory acts through protective
action. This application of state biopolitics, according to Foucault's perspective,
confers on the state the responsibility to intervene to improve life and control
discriminatory acts. However, despite these innovations, the effective
implementation of these constitutional provisions faces contradictions and
resistance. The lack of practical application generates perceptions of
contradiction and ambiguity, generating tensions with indigenous movements,
political parties and women's movements. This misunderstanding reveals the
complexity of translating constitutional principles into tangible changes.
The most significant attempt at transformation occurred during the Constituent
Assemblies, which drafted decolonising constitutions in 1998 and pluricultural
ones in 2008. These changes responded to the ongoing struggle between social
movements and economic power groups, revealing the tension between
openness to the rights of nature and persistent challenges to gender equality.
Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
48
Despite the openings and the increased visibility of women in the political sphere,
gender-based violence and femicide persist and, according to statistical data,
show a worrying increase. Resistance to eradicating machista cultural patterns
and the lack of collective action at all levels represent significant challenges.
The 2017 elections evidenced the persistent operation of machismo in the
political arena. The registration of women on Electoral Councils to comply with
constitutional principles, rather than out of a genuine interest in equality,
highlights the need to address expressions of machismo in politics and other
decision-making spaces. The research emphasises that true gender equality
goes beyond constitutional recognition and secondary legislation. Ecuadorian
society continues to be marked by machista and patriarchal views rooted in
colonial and racist legacies. The formal inclusion of women does not guarantee
the elimination of discrimination and gender-based violence, highlighting the
need for a profound cultural change.
The research concludes that "male domination" continues to be the driving force
behind Ecuadorian men's representations, imaginaries and practices towards
women. Women's participation in decision-making spaces challenges this
domination, generating conflicts and areas of struggle in both private and public
life.
In short, the effective implementation of constitutional gender principles in
Ecuador is at a crossroads. The need to overcome resistance, address deep
cultural challenges and promote tangible change highlights the complexity of
translating theory into practice and reveals the importance of addressing male
domination as a persistent force in Ecuadorian society.
Machismo and its obstruction of women's rights
Machismo in Ecuador, rooted in historical and cultural patterns, manifests itself
as a structure of male domination that has evolved over time (Ibáñez, 2017). The
transformation of roles following the emergence of modern marriage marked a
milestone in this evolution, altering gender equity and consolidating male
supremacy in family and social matters. This change contributed to the cultural
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La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
49
construction of gender, delineating roles and establishing a vertical exercise of
power by men over women (Álava-Arteaga, & López-Padrón, 2020).
The gradual introduction of neutral human rights gave way to the need to
specifically recognise and address gender inequalities. Conventional and
constitutional norms and decisions in international human rights bodies have
sought to mitigate discrimination and violence against women. However,
challenges related to machismo persist, especially in the area of sexual violence,
where patriarchal values have imposed control and pigeonholing that perpetuate
women's disadvantage (Martínez, 2018).
The gender approach reveals that women face systematic discrimination and
inequality, exacerbated by sexual violence. Values rooted in patriarchy have
influenced ideological apparatuses, contributing to a traditional understanding of
rights that is insufficient to address deep inequalities linked to sexuality. In this
context, Ecuador has implemented significant legal measures, highlighting non-
revictimisation as a constitutional right (Pinargote-Zamora, 2022). This right
acquires primary relevance in the Ecuadorian legal system, supported by a legal
framework that recognises and guarantees protection for victims of violence
against women. The inclusion of concepts and provisions in line with international
treaties and conventions reflects a commitment to address issues related to
machismo (Moscoso-Parra, et al. 2018).
Despite legal advances, challenges persist in the elimination of machismo in
Ecuador. The effective implementation of these regulations and cultural
transformation are complex processes. Resistance rooted in patriarchal values,
which manifests itself in violence and discrimination, requires a comprehensive
approach that goes beyond the legal framework. The notion of non-revictimisation
is not only a constitutional right but also a key tool in the fight against machismo.
By recognising and addressing the possibility of re-victimisation, it seeks to
counter cultural patterns that perpetuate impunity and silence around gender-
based violence (Moscoso-Parra, et al. 2018).
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Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
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La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
50
The need to broaden the understanding of rights and redefine gender relations is
essential to overcome entrenched machismo. Social, educational and cultural
engagement is as crucial as legal measures to achieve meaningful and lasting
transformation (Patricia-Berni, 2018).
While Ecuador has taken important steps to address machismo through its legal
framework, the challenge lies in effectively implementing these measures and
promoting deep cultural change. The notion of non-revictimisation highlights the
importance of a comprehensive approach that considers both legal and social
aspects in order to move towards a more egalitarian and machismo-free society.
CONCLUSIONS
In the complex tapestry of Ecuadorian political participation, Afro-Ecuadorian
women emerge as key agents of change, challenging entrenched narratives and
contributing to the transformation of the country's political landscape. Their
community engagement and inspirational leadership have left a significant
footprint, marking milestones that defy historical invisibility. However, this journey
is not without systemic challenges, particularly at the intersection of racial and
gender discrimination.
Afro-Ecuadorian women's political participation, although it has made notable
advances, continues to face obstacles rooted in cultural and structural patterns.
Legislation requiring parity and alternation on political lists has had limited impact,
and the lack of proportional representation persists. The structure of the electoral
system and sexist attitudes in politics remain significant barriers.
Despite these challenges, specific strategies, such as strengthening political
education and implementing affirmative policies, offer concrete ways to catalyse
meaningful change. The allocation of specific financial resources to promote the
Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
51
participation of Afro-Ecuadorian women and the creation of training and
leadership spaces are essential measures.
Women's participation in the Ecuadorian legislative agenda reflects a complex
dynamic where, despite numerical advances, challenges persist in the effective
promotion of the gender agenda. Cooperative strategies among women
legislators and the need to involve the executive and parliamentary committees
are crucial elements to guarantee the real inclusion of issues of interest to women
in legislation.
Ecuador's 2008 Constitution, while incorporating advanced principles of non-
discrimination on the basis of gender identity, faces challenges in its effective
implementation. Cultural resistance and lack of collective action perpetuate
gender-based violence, highlighting the need for a profound cultural change that
transcends constitutional recognition.
In the fight against machismo in Ecuador, non-revictimisation emerges as a key
constitutional right and an essential tool. Although the country has made
legislative progress, the challenge remains one of cultural transformation. Social,
educational and cultural engagement is fundamental to achieving lasting equity.
Ultimately, this analysis proposes not only a call to action but the creation of an
inclusive space where Afro-Ecuadorian women are active and fundamental
agents in the construction of a more equitable and just Ecuador. Addressing
machismo goes beyond legislation; it implies a deep commitment to cultural and
social transformation towards a society where all voices find resonance and
power in the corridors of power.
FUNDING
Non-monetary
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
There is no conflict of interest with persons or institutions involved in research.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
To Ecuadorian women in their courage to achieve equality of their rights.
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REFERENCES
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Verdad y Derecho
Revista Arbitrada de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales
Vol. 3(1), 37-53, 2024
La participación política de la mujer desde una visión constitucional en Ecuador
Women's political participation from a constitutional point of view in Ecuador
Edgar Paúl Zúñiga-Hurtado
53
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