The activity of women in civil society in the light of gender inequalities. The results of empirical research of active women in Gdańsk

Abstract

The paper aims to describe women’s roles in frame of civic society with regard to gender inequalities. The article is based upon an analysis of in-depth interviews (n = 30) conducted in early 2020 among women social activists in Gdańsk. The study proves that gender role – as a consequence of social inequalities – results in women more often satisfying their psychological needs within the frame of civic society compared to men. This allows women to upkeep their motivation to action despite the deficit of external factors. Simultaneously, gender role leads to performing activities within a specific organizational frame relying upon ‘women’s values’ (e.g. cooperation and feeling of community). Such organizational formula translates to a more effective manner of performing action in the face of structural barriers, including lack of access to resources needed to realize the aims set by women activists themselves.