Gender Gaps in Immigrants’ Political Participation within and across Borders: Political Socialization or Opportunity Structures?

Abstract

This study assesses gender gaps in political participation within the host country and in transnational activities among immigrants, using a survey of more than 1000 immigrants in Quebec (Canada). More specifically, the study examines whether premigration experiences with gender equality shapes immigrants’ political participation. We find no evidence of gender gaps in political activities in the host country, but observe a gender gap in transnational political activities varying in size depending on levels of gender equality in immigrants’ countries of origin. The analyses suggest that structural opportunities, more than political socialization, might account for this gender gap.