Navigating Gendered Barriers and Leveraging Support in Conservation: A Comparative Case Study in South Korea and Mongolia

Author

• Nari Lee, University of Montana, MissoulaFollow

Year of Award

2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

Master of Science (MS)

Degree Name

Environmental Studies

Other Degree Name/Area of Focus

Women’s, Gender & Sexuality Studies, International Development Studies

Department or School/College

W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation

Committee Chair

Margiana Petersen-Rockney

Commitee Members

Dr. Hilary Faxon, Dr. Elizabeth A. Hubble

Keywords

Gender equity, Conservation leadership, South Korea, Mongolia, Qualitative ethnography, Systemic barriers

Subject Categories

Environmental Studies

Abstract

This research examines the impact of gender inequity on conservation efforts in South Korea and Mongolia, focusing on how patriarchal structures and gender norms create systemic barriers within the field. Mongolia and South Korea have contrasting ecological and socio-political contexts. Where Mongolia has low-density, climate-vulnerable pastoral systems, Korea is highly industrialized and densely populated.

However, both countries exhibit male-dominated leadership in conservation. Despite growing attention to gender in conservation, empirical research grounded in women’s lived experiences remains limited in these contexts. This study employs qualitative ethnographic methods, including semi-structured interviews and photovoice, with 28 women professionals. It identifies six categories of systemic barriers that women face: formal and informal exclusion, gendered legitimacy and stereotypes, career constraints, cross-national and cultural dynamics, and intragender gatekeeping. These barriers reflect structural inequalities rather than individual limitations.

Despite these challenges, women actively employ strategies of resistance, such as managing gendered risk through boundary-setting, repositioning authority through professional identity work, and navigating institutional structures to sustain careers. The findings emphasize that accountability within institutions is essential for promoting gender equity in conservation, rather than relying solely on individual coping strategies. Additionally, it suggests that adopting gender-inclusive practices can enhance the effectiveness of conservation efforts by integrating diverse knowledge and approaches.

By highlighting women’s voices in two distinct contexts, this research provides practical insights for policymakers and conservation organizations. It aims to strengthen institutional support, foster inclusive leadership, and improve equitable conservation practices.

Keywords: Gender Equity, Institutional Accountability, Biodiversity Conservation, Inclusive Leadership, Gender-inclusive Practices, South Korea, Mongolia.

Recommended Citation

Lee, Nari, "Navigating Gendered Barriers and Leveraging Support in Conservation: A Comparative Case Study in South Korea and Mongolia" (2026). Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers. 12666.
https://scholarworks.umt.edu/etd/12666