Representation, Quota Law and Electoral Systems

Abstract

This article analyzes the relationship between representation and affirmative action in the field of politics. Affirmative action is designed in order to equate sectors that, because of social or cultural reasons, cannot compete on equal distribution of resources or positions. In this context, and taking as reference the Law of Quotes, is intended, first, to discuss the validity of the arguments which assert that women representatives carry the duty, assigned by the social imaginary, to be more ethical and sensitive to the social problems. It also challenges the idea that women’s access office, guaranteed by affirmative action, automatically lead to gender representation. It is argued in this sense they must, also, fulfill the expectations of being representatives of their gender. Finally we attempt to highlight the need to incorporate the relationship between electoral systems and the access of women to the legislative arena in the debate on electoral reform in our country. We emphasize the importance of taking into account the relationship between electoral systems and women’s access to the Chambers, but not to exhausting its content and / or turning the Law of Quotes impracticable through possible institutional reforms.