Perceptions of Gender Equality in a Military Organization

Abstract: The purpose of this thesis is to reach a better understanding of how people view gender equality and the equality-work conducted, in a male-dominated and public organization, like the Swedish Armed Forces. The study is based upon a qualitative research approach with an interpretative, hermeneutical perspective. Further, this has been done through semi-structured interviews and document studies as methods for constructing empirical material, while following an abductive approach. The theoretical framework is based on existing literature and research regarding: gender equality, diversity and equality at the workplace, gender equality in the military, diversity initiatives and image management. The findings of this study indicate that gender equality is viewed as fundamental within the Swedish Armed Forces, however, there is still a lot left to do. The equality-work conducted after #givaktochbitihop could be seen as equality-washing, due to faulty communication and lack of local relevance and depth. Yet, equality-washing can be a preferable practice in order to gain external legitimacy.