Whitney M. Lopez-Hardin
Vanderbilt University
Political Science Graduate Student
WORKS IN PROGRESS
Project |01
Abstract: Though many have examined the economic implications of migration few have explored how connections to a migrant—including economic and social remittances sent back—influence recipients’ broader social and political norms. In this paper I examine the ways in which remittances transform recipients’ views regarding the role of women in politics, including their ability as politicians, how well they manage the national economy, and their susceptibility to corruption. Theoretically, connections to migrants living in advanced democracies are expected to lead to a more progressive view of women’s role in politics. Missing from these expectations is attention to the highly distinct context in which migrants often find themselves. The host country may have a more egalitarian political culture overall, yet the specific experiences of migrants may be far more conservative. To test this possibility, I analyze 2012 LAPOP data and find that receiving remittances instead reduces one's likelihood of holding egalitarian views regarding gender norms. This paper suggests the specific conditions under which remittances may negatively shape recipients' perceptions about the role of women in politics.
Explaining the Gender Gap in Political Participation among Remittance Recipients in Latin America
2015. Working Paper ​
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Project |02
The Role of Economic and Social Remittances on Perceptions of Women in Politics.
2015. Working Paper
Abstract: This paper explores the reasons why we continue to see a gender gap in political participation within many Latin American countries despite widespread suffrage and the advancement of women’s rights. I argue that conventional models of political participation do not adequately explain the gender gap, but rather, a dependence on remittance income partially mediates the relationship between gender and participation. An increased dependence on remittance income leads to greater disenchantment with the state, which reduces participation in the formal political system. Thus, the effect of remittance income does not conform to the existing literature on income as a resource for political participation. Rather, a greater dependence on remittance income reduces incentives to participate, which partially helps to explain why we continue to observe the gender gap in political participation.