New research analyzes how judicial reshuffles in Latin America between 1961 and 2014 affected women's representation. 📊 The paper finds that while weak institutions during political transitions might temporarily favor women justices, especially under left parties, these gains are often short-lived and limited to the judiciary alone.

🔍 Data & Methods

The study uses difference-in-differences and dynamic panel models for 18 Latin American countries over nearly six decades. ⚖️ The theory suggests institutional disruption helps fill diversity gaps only when progressive governments control appointments.

💡 Key Findings

The analysis supports the hypothesis but shows modest, unsustainable progress in gender diversification through political reshuffles alone. 🤔 Why did gains prove fleeting despite initial boosts? Perhaps because reshuffles don't address underlying structural barriers.

📌 Why It Matters

This nuanced understanding helps explain why women's representation on high courts remains limited across Latin America despite occasional surges during left-wing governments. 🔍 The findings highlight the limitations of piecemeal change.