Exploring the Combined Effects of Socio-Political Conflicts and Patriarchic Society on a Construction Career Path: Evidence from Afghan Female Professionals

Abstract

ABSTRACT Women’s under-representation in the construction industry is evident in developing and developed economies worldwide. Previous studies show that several factors, including cultural and societal norms, result in the low participation of women in the construction industry. This study explores the combined effects of socio-political conflicts and patriarchic society on female construction professionals’ experiences and career paths in the Afghan construction industry. The thematic analysis of the qualitative data collected from in-depth semi-structured interviews with eight Afghan female construction professionals revealed that social and political unrest influenced their career choices and career growth in the Afghan construction industry. In addition, widespread corruption and security issues distinctly shaped their work experiences. The findings also revealed the negative influence of overprotective culture and religious beliefs on women professionals’ experiences and careers. Finally, this study found that office-based roles, family support, and technology adoption encouraged women’s participation in the Afghan construction industry. Given the scarcity of research from similar contexts, this study provides empirical evidence on various challenges female professionals face in the construction industry in patriarchic societies and war-affected and conflict-sensitive regions.