Gender discrimination against women: An exploration of the institutional culture of the Chilean judiciary

Abstract

The article explores some characteristics of the institutional culture of the Chilean Judiciary to understand how they influence discriminatory treatment against women, both officials and users. To do so, the presence and impact of gender stereotypes in the unequal treatment of women is analysed in two spaces: the internal one, corresponding to women officials; and the external one, related to women users. Through a qualitative approach, which used interviews and focus groups, various gender stereotypes were evidenced. The study reveals the presence of a sexist and patriarchal culture within this branch of the State, which would be the basis of discriminatory practices that affect the work experience of women officials and the access to justice of users of the Chilean Judiciary.