Women’s leadership skills in the military police: a study in the Northern Region of Brazil

Purpose The article aims to explore how the military police in Brazil’s Northern Region incorporate “difference” and “diversity” into leadership, focusing on women in leadership roles. It examines institutional changes in leadership styles and the development of inclusive practices. The goal is to understand the competencies women bring to police leadership and how these can transform organizational culture. Design/methodology/approach The study employed in-depth interviews with 20 women’s police leaders in Pará, using MAXQDA for data analysis and criteria sampling for participant selection to achieve data saturation. Findings The study results indicate that women’s leadership in the Military Police of Pará fosters a new organizational culture, emphasizing shared and transformational leadership. Women’s leaders are seen as adaptable and resilient, capable of balancing professional performance with emotional management. Traits such as empathy and sensitivity are prominent, creating a more humanized work environment. Additionally, the creativity and charisma of women’s leaders facilitate the development of innovative solutions to complex problems, demonstrating the transformative impact of women’s leadership within the police. Research limitations/implications The study’s limitations include its focus on a specific region with a small sample size, reliance on self-reported data, which may introduce bias, and findings deeply embedded in the local cultural contexto in the police. Practical implications The practical implications of this study include encouraging the development of formal networks and mentorship opportunities, particularly those led by women. These initiatives aim to promote gender equity within the police force by preventing women from being disadvantaged in competitive processes such as exams and performance evaluations, thereby eliminating implicit biases. Implementing mentorship programs that connect experienced women officers with aspiring officers can facilitate the exchange of practical knowledge and experience while developing essential skills like empathy, compassion and emotional balance. Originality/value The originality and value of this study lie in its focus on the unique competencies and leadership styles of female leaders in the Military Police of Northern Brazil. It highlights how these leaders introduce empathy, creativity and resilience into the traditionally male-dominated police culture, fostering a more inclusive and effective organizational environment. This research fills a gap by providing insights into how female leadership can transform police practices, emphasizing the importance of diversity and gender-sensitive approaches in law enforcement.