The Woman Crisis: A Lack of Representation in International Relations

• In Event: Re-Theorizing International Relations

Abstract

Women remain significantly underrepresented in the field of International Relations (IR), both in authorship and in the integration of feminist perspectives within academic discourse. This paper critically examines the lack of gender diversity in IR scholarship, focusing on the Theories of International Politics course (POLSCI 772) at McMaster University. A content analysis of the course syllabus reveals that the majority of assigned readings are authored by men, with gender-focused scholarship largely confined to a single designated week. Even when gender-related topics are discussed, the absence of male authors engaging with feminist perspectives suggests a broader systemic issue within the discipline.
Beyond authorship, this study analyzes course readings for references to key terms such as "women," "feminism," "sex," and "gender," demonstrating that gender analysis is largely absent from mainstream IR scholarship. The paper argues that this exclusion not only reflects the entrenched patriarchal structure of IR but also limits the field’s analytical scope by disregarding the impact of gender dynamics in global politics.
The study highlights the necessity of incorporating intersectionality and feminist perspectives throughout IR curricula rather than relegating them to niche discussions. While the paper acknowledges the constraints faced by individual instructors, it ultimately calls for structural change within the discipline, advocating for greater inclusion of diverse voices and perspectives. Addressing these gaps will foster a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of international politics, ensuring that IR scholarship reflects the complex realities of a diverse global society.

Author

• Kayla Lui, McMaster University