The dual impact of meritocracy and denial of gender discrimination in political candidacy

Abstract Despite progress in gender equality, women remain underrepresented in politics, with a prevailing belief that barriers to gender discrimination have been virtually eliminated. This study examines why some women deny the existence of a glass ceiling despite facing gender discrimination, proposing that meritocracy ideology plays a role. Analyzing data from the World Values Survey, the study revealed that while meritocracy reduces prejudice about men's suitability for leadership, it is also linked to denying gender discrimination in political opportunities. This dual influence varies by national context: the negative link between meritocracy and explicit sexism is stronger in countries with lower women's empowerment, while the denial of gender discrimination in political representation is more pronounced in countries with higher women's empowerment.