Women and Leadership in Algerian Organizations: between Social Pressures and Challenges of Competence and Entitlemen

Abstract

Abstract: This paper surveys the dynamics surrounding Algerian women's leadership aspirations within a set of patriarchal culture and social pressures and challenges related to entitlement. In contemporary society, women face the challenge of navigating the tension between societal and cultural expectations placed upon them and their aspirations for reaching leadership positions that they rightfully deserve. This study aims to investigate the impact of conventional conceptions of women's social roles and the cultural discourse around them on women's capacity to engage in leadership, specifically in terms of entitlement and ambition. Through theoretical frameworks and case study of a sample of employees at Skikda University, this research contributes insights that highlight the complexities of women's leadership journeys. The findings of empirical research indicate that, in Algerian society, the culture of discrimination against women is tolerated regardless of sex, age or social class. Women have more obstacles to achieving equal opportunities in leadership positions due to deeply ingrained cultural norms and societal expectations. Algerian women acknowledge their ability to lead but also highlight the existence of discriminatory barriers. The study focuses mostly on women who choose not to take on leadership roles due to cultural bias and deeply ingrained gender stereotypes. The study's findings align with the gender theory of the school of cultural studies. However, further research is necessary to determine ways of dismantling the dominant cultural narrative around women, with the aim of removing obstacles to women's access to leadership positions. This study aims at clarifying the diverse obstacles encountered by women in general, and specifically Algerian women aspiring to leadership roles, by establishing a foundation for future research that might suggest tangible solutions that promote the inclusion of women in leadership. Keywords : Gender, leadership, entitlement, social bias, cultural discriminations.