FEMALE REPRESENTATION IN BRAZILIAN POLITICS: A HISTORICAL ANALYSIS SINCE 1932

Abstract

This study examines the trajectory of women’s political participation in Brazil since the conquest of the right to vote in 1932, with an emphasis on elected positions in the legislative and executive branches. The analysis highlights normative advances, such as the implementation of the quota law, and the persistent structural and cultural challenges that limit women’s full participation in politics. Using historical data and recent statistics, it is shown that, despite institutional progress, women’s effective representation still faces barriers such as political gender violence, inequality in campaign financing, and resistance from political parties. The article concludes with recommendations to strengthen gender equity policies in the Brazilian political system.