Board gender diversity in cooperatives: a review and research agenda

Purpose This research combines bibliometric analysis with a systematic literature review (SLR) of Board Gender Diversity (BGD) in social economy (SE) enterprises, particularly cooperatives, to address the status of women in corporate governance. This study highlights key areas and topics in the field of BGD. Design/methodology/approach The methodology combines a bibliometric study, based on the Scopus database, with SLR. The PRISMA flow chart was followed during the data collection process. The main topics, authors, journals, countries and institutions in this field were identified from scientific mapping. Findings Thus, the findings allow us to conclude that gender diversity is a less explored field in the case of cooperative enterprises than in investor-owned firms (IOFs), where there is greater empirical evidence. However, in recent years, SE enterprises have acquired greater interest. Unexplored topics are identified, such as the critical mass of women on the boards of cooperatives, the social impact of BGD and the effects of the quality of the BGD leadership on performance. Originality/value This study provides an overview of women's governance in SE enterprises, a field in need of further research and empirical evidence. The results can help increase women's presence on these enterprises' boards.