Cultural Constraints and Catalysts: A Cross-Regional Inquiry into Women’s Leadership Aspirations in Eastern and Western Societies

Abstract

The persistent underrepresentation of women in leadership positions across diverse global contexts continues to be a significant concern, not merely as a matter of equity but as a reflection of entrenched cultural norms and institutional structures that often constrain women’s leadership aspirations. This study undertakes a comparative investigation between Eastern and Western societies to unravel the multifaceted cultural dynamics that influence women's motivation, access, and progression into leadership roles, drawing on both extensive secondary literature and primary empirical data collected via a structured cross-regional survey of working women. The findings suggest that while cultural expectations are experienced globally, the manifestation and intensity of these expectations vary significantly, with Eastern societies often presenting more rigid traditional gender roles that hinder professional advancement, whereas Western contexts, though more progressive on paper, reveal subtler yet persistent barriers rooted in organizational practices and societal perceptions. Despite these differences, shared structural impediments such as gender stereotypes, limited mentorship, and work-life balance challenges underscore the global nature of the issue. This paper highlights the urgent need for policy reform, organizational transformation, and cultural reconfiguration to foster inclusive leadership ecosystems that recognize and elevate women's leadership potential across geographical and cultural boundaries.