Women in Policing

Based on extensive interview data, this study argues that in the countries it studies (Austria, England & Wales) the police force consists of highly entrenched structures that perpetuate gender divisions and the hegemonic position of masculinity. In order to create a fully inclusive workplace, the police force needs to be rethought rather than the proportion of women in this masculinised work environment simply being increased. Existing gender equality measures in the police force are merely fighting symptoms instead of addressing causes. Structural change, reinforced by legal measures, seems to be stagnating, while broader discursive and cultural change is being neglected.