Gender, Money, and Power: The Importance of Equitable Distribution of Political Financing for the Achievement of Parity Democracy in Argentina

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the existence and consequences of a gender gap in political parties’ distribution of campaign budgets. We chose Cordoba, Argentina, because it pioneered electoral reforms favoring women. Four subthemes were identified from twenty-four interviews with legislators: gender differences in budget allocation, practices and consequences of differential treatment for female candidates, limitations of the political party financing law, and access to private funding. The study reveals a systemic gender-based inequality in campaign funding, limiting women’s ability to compete equally with men in politics. It highlights the intersection of gender and financial power, showing that current political finance regulations are insufficient. These findings challenge the effectiveness of gender-focused reforms and suggest the need for comprehensive approaches to political party financing. The study also has implications for future research, as it raises important questions about the long-term effects of financial inequality on women’s political participation and representation globally.