Quotas in regional federations' executive boards: a gender perspective analysis

Introduction: the increasing presence of women in sport leadership in recent years is gradually rebalancing a historically unequal field. Objective: framed by Kanter's theory of occupational sex segregation, this study investigates the gender composition of regional sports federations' governing boards. Specifically, it aims to describe the profile of their members following the implementation of a quota measure, analyzing the current landscape from a gender perspective. Method: The study surveyed 194 board members (62.37% men, 37.63% women). The 26-item instrument collected data on sociodemographic, professional, and leadership experience characteristics. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and independent t-tests. Results: Significant gender disparities were found. Women board members were significantly younger and held higher educational levels than men. However, men possessed more coaching certifications, held higher-presidency roles, and had more years of leadership experience. Women were overrepresented in lower-influence vocal positions and dedicated fewer weekly work hours. No significant difference in gender representation was found between individual and team sports boards. Discussion: While the mandatory quota achieved a balanced numerical proportion, gender disparities persist in opportunity and power. Women board members occupy less influential roles and have less leadership experience than men. This suggests quotas alone are insufficient. Conclusion: To transform tokenistic representation, complementary measures -such as mandatory zipper systems or extending quota requirements to specific leadership positions- are important. Future research should employ qualitative and longitudinal designs to analyze power dynamics within boards. Gender equality in sports governance requires actively restructuring power relations, not merely meeting compositional targets.