The Struggle for Gender Equality: Policy Implementation in Argentina’s Security Forces

Abstract It is now over a decade since the inception of gender equality policies in Argentina’s police and security institutions. In this study we scrutinize the implementation gaps of these policies through interviews, focus groups, and story completion methods at Argentina’s Gendarmerie. Our analysis focuses on three key policies aimed at fostering gender equality within federal police and security organizations transitioning toward more democratic and professional institutions: (1) prohibiting actions that hinder the inclusion of individuals with dependents, and pregnant or lactating women, (2) establishing maternity and breastfeeding leaves, and (3) prohibiting actions impeding promotion for pregnant or lactating individuals. Using Engeli and Mazur’s analytical framework, we find these policies to be forward-thinking, yet hindered by institutional barriers to their implementation. The gender policy outcomes reveal a gender-accommodating approach, wherein entrenched traditional gender roles persist.