The Quest for Gender Parity: Angela Merkel and the Diversification of Electoral Politics in Germany. Issue 2 (1st June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mushaben, Joyce Marie
• Is Part Of: German politics and society. Volume 40:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 53
• Page End: 70
• Publication Date: 2022-06-01
• Subjects: Angela Merkel -- Bundestag elections -- diversity -- gender parity -- intersectionality -- women leaders -- youth representation; Germany -- Civilization -- Periodicals; Germany -- Politics and government -- 1945-1990 -- Periodicals; Germany -- Politics and government -- 1990- -- Periodicals; 943.005
• DOI: 10.3167/gps.2022.400203
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1558-5441

Abstract

Abstract: Given Angela Merkel's long-standing reluctance to label herself a feminist, many scholars would find it hard to credit her with the increasingly "intersectional" composition of the Bundestag and the Landtage as of the 2021 elections. The last 16 years have nonetheless witnessed major shifts in German policies affecting the rights of women, persons with migration background, and lgbtqia community members. These developments have arguably contributed, directly and indirectly, to voters' willingness to accept candidates with diverse backgrounds as capable of representing "the people's interests" beyond the needs of their respective identity groups. This article considers multiple factors contributing to increasing diversity among German lawmakers at various levels, including policy shifts that have helped to reconfigure the political opportunity structure and thus the electoral landscape. It concludes with reflections on Merkel's legacy, coupled with the role of generational change in "normalizing" diversity across the Berlin Republic.