Inequality in recruitment: gender discrimination in the stevedoring sector

Abstract

In this paper, we analyse the perceptions of a group of women on the consequences of the lack of female representation in the stevedoring sector. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews, which were then analysed using an inductive approach. Significant efforts have been made to achieve equality in access to jobs traditionally considered male. In the stevedoring sector, the ideal candidate is associated with hegemonic masculinity. Gender stereotyping seems to influence individuals’ beliefs and their expectations and evaluations of others. These arguments justify the exclusion of women from this occupation. In sectors marked by a certain degree of conflict, gender inequality and discrimination are even more pronounced.