Women’s political representation in the LXV Legislature ofGuanajuato and Hidalgo

Abstract

This article examines the congresses of Guanajuato and Hidalgo during the 2021-2022 period,
focusing on the reference between descriptive representation (number of women in congresses)
and substantive representation (percentage and legislated gender agenda items). The analysis was
conducted according to the type of proponent: female deputies, male deputies, or parliamentary
group. The central argument was that, despite the gender-balanced composition of both congresses,
women’s interests are not a priority on the legislative agenda because the commitments of
political parties prevail; however, critical actors are primarily driving negotiations for deputies or
parliamentary groups to propose and approve bills in this regard. Among the main findings, it was
confirmed that the gender agenda is not a legislative priority, as well as the distinctive role of critical
actors. Also, in Guanajuato, the political party that approved the most bills on this topic was the
Partido Acción Nacional, while in Hidalgo, it was individual female deputies.