Leadership structures of major international organisations: An exploration of gender and regional disparities

Shazia K Jan, Moo Sung LEE, Keri Chui

    Research output: A Conference proceeding or a Chapter in BookChapterpeer-review

    Abstract

    In this chapter we explore gender and regional disparities in leadership positions in major international organizations. To this end, we conducted data mining of the Yearbook of International Organizations 2007–2008, the largest database of profiles of high-ranking officials in international organizations ranging from intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations. Findings indicate that significant gender and regional disparities exist in leadership positions; the vast majority of global leaders in the organizations were males, mostly educated in Western-based universities. Given the increasing influence of international organizations on various global issues, our findings enable us to question whether key international organizations equitably represent all people by developing and implementing the best policies for all people. Our findings also suggest that these organizations’ hiring and promotion practices need to be better understood, given that certain types of human resources (males educated in top Western-based universities) appear to be selectively appreciated, preferred, and accepted as leaders
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationRacially and Ethnically Diverse Women Leading Education
    Subtitle of host publication A Worldview
    EditorsAnthony H. Normore
    Place of PublicationBingley
    PublisherEmerald
    Pages23-34
    Number of pages11
    Volume25
    ISBN (Electronic)9781786350718
    ISBN (Print)9781786350725
    Publication statusPublished - 2016

    Publication series

    NameAdvances in Educational Administration
    PublisherEmerald Insight
    Number23-24
    Volume25
    ISSN (Print)1479-3660

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