Challenges encountered by elected women leaders in local governments in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Background: The local government election of Sri Lanka held in February 2018 marked a historic milestone for female political representation with the 25% quota for women in local government under the Local Authorities Elections (Amendment) Act, No.16 of 2017. However, these elected women leaders (EWLs) have limited experience in political leadership and advocacy to their constituents, face issues due to patriarchal social structure and traditional gender roles and may encounter harassment from their male counterparts and other men in communities. Hence, the aim of this study was to explore the challenges faced by EWLs in selected local governments in Sri Lanka. Method: The study was conducted in Ampara, Badulla, Jaffna and Kurunegala districts. Qualitative research method was used for primary data collection. A total of 47 semi-structured interviews were conducted via telephone interviews during May/June 2020. This included six EWLs from each district (a total of 24) and two Civil Society Organizations'(CSO) leaders from each district (a total of 08), 11 district level activists and four national level activists. The interview transcripts were prepared in English, and they were coded under common themes using thematic analysis method. Results: It was found that the EWLs are confronted with structural and agency barriers. Balancing their traditional gender roles in the private sphere and duties as political leaders in the public sphere, maintaining their 'good name' as respectable wives and mothers due to their involvement in politics, financial hardships and disrespect felt in carrying out duties in local governments were identified as structural barriers. Not being aware of and less involved in gender sensitive decision making and lack of skills and knowledge in the Act and other laws and regulations of the local council were agency barriers that they faced. Conclusion: In conclusion, EWLs were unable to actively participate in and influence the decision-making process in their local governments due to their gender roles and gender power relations in society.