Institutional sexism

Institutional sexism refers to the ways that organizations, policies, and societal structures perpetuate inequality based on gender. It manifests through practices, unequal laws, or cultural norms that advantage one gender—often men—while disadvantaging others, especially women. This can be seen in workplaces with wage gaps, limited advancement opportunities, or gendered expectations, and in institutions like education or government that reinforce stereotypes or unequal treatment. Unlike individual discrimination, institutional sexism is embedded in the systems and can persist even without intentional bias, influencing opportunities and perceptions across society.