“…Many governments in countries in South and Southeast Asia have endorsed international instruments to ensure equal participation of women and men in the political, social, economic and cultural life of the country. Considerable efforts have been made to create the “right conditions” for women's development in leadership positions in local government (Kanchoochat & Hewison, 2016; Akirva, 2021, p. 78). However, despite all efforts, women remain underrepresented in administration in developing countries (Ferdous & Islam, 2021; ILO, 2014; Kabir, 2013; UNDP, 2012; Jahan & Rahman, 2011).…”