Uncovering autocratic genderwashing : A qualitative analysis of the reserved seats gender quota in authoritarian Zimbabwe

The concept of autocratic genderwashing describes how gender reforms, such as reserved seats gender quotas, enable autocratic regimes to use the close linkage between gender equality and democracy in the strive to gain legitimacy and power. Still, this does not necessarily result in a positive impact on women’s political representation. Previous studies of autocratic genderwashing have focused on the nomination processes for gender quotas. This study extends the scope into parliamentary work and the political dynamics between and within the political parties in that phase, allowing for a broader understanding of the concept. Highlighting the case of Zimbabwe, it aims to answer the research question ‘If and in what ways can the reserved seats gender quota in Zimbabwe be considered autocratic genderwashing’? Based on Feminist Institutionalism, an analytical framework is developed as a method to uncover autocratic genderwashing. Based on online interviews with quota-elected women and NGO representatives, which allows for a cross-party analysis, the findings suggest that the Zimbabwean reserved seats quota is a case of autocratic genderwashing. This is due to how the quota constitutes a tool for ZANU-PF to strengthen its legitimacy, reenforce the uneven playing field and give its quota elected women a slightly better position to represent women’s interests. The study highlights the importance of designing gender quotas carefully as the effects are more complex than admitting women to parliament.