Gender, Higher Education, and Citizenship in Chile: Local Reflections for a Global Citizenship
摘要
Since 2017, Chile has seen a surge in feminist movements emerging from universities, reflecting the growing participation of women in both informal and formal politics. Despite these advances, women remain underrepresented in political decision-making roles in Chile and globally. Research indicates that gaps in political participation are driven by structural inequalities in resources, a lack of political confidence, and deeply entrenched gender stereotypes. This chapter examines the crucial role of citizenship education in addressing these disparities and closing the gender gap in political engagement. By incorporating a gender perspective, the chapter argues that higher education institutions can play a pivotal role in fostering civic engagement and increasing political participation among female students, thereby contributing to a more equitable and democratic society. To support this argument, the chapter draws on a review of key literature on gender and education and an analysis of primary data, particularly from the 2023 Gender and Citizenship Survey conducted in Chile’s Metropolitan Region. It advocates for curricular and extracurricular initiatives that promote political interest and confidence among female students while addressing the broader social and political challenges related to gender in education. Within this framework, the chapter explores how universities can more effectively support democratic engagement and promote gender equality in an increasingly globalised world.