Slovenian Policewomen in Leadership Positions – Overview
Purpose:
This article reveals the real situation of women in senior positions in the police. The aim of the research was to find out whether women are disadvantaged in senior positions in the police and to make suggestions for improving the situation.
Design/Methods/Approach:
A situation analysis has been carried out. We used the descriptive statistical methods to analyse the data obtained from the Ministry of the Interior, literature review, descriptive method and synthesis method.
Findings:
Women in managerial positions in the police represent only 3.6% of all managers. Although they are as capable and successful leaders as men, they are at a disadvantage when it comes to promotion due to several reasons, including the glass ceiling phenomenon. The highest number of female leaders is at national level, while the lowest number is at local level. The reverse is true for assistant posts. Most female assistants are at local level and fewer at national level.
Research Limitations / Implications:
The data used are from 2022 and it is possible that the situation has changed somewhat in the meantime. With the potential for a repeat in the future, the survey provides comparative data against which progress could be monitored.
Practical Implications:
An analysis of the situation was carried out and feasible proposals for improving the situation were given.
Originality/Value:
This is the only survey in Slovenia that transparently presents the actual data on the situation of female police officers in leadership positions and it shows that the position of women in the police is less favourable. The paper points out that the situation needs to be improved and brings well-founded suggestions that have not yet been made in Slovenia.
UDC: 351.74-055.2(497.4)
Keywords: leadership, women, police, equality, gender