Work

Gender inequality at the street level explained: redoing gender through informal practices

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study examines whether gendered differences in discretion shape inequality among street-level bureaucrats (SLBs). Focusing on the provision of informal personal resources (IFRs) to clients, we analyzed 59 in-depth interviews with social workers in Israel. While both women and men engage in extensive informal practices, their scope and form differ. Two mechanisms drive the reproduction of inequality: invisibility versus visibility of IFRs, and boundary setting between personal and professional spheres. These findings reveal that discretion in implementation not only is gendered but also reproduces conventional hierarchies, intensifying gender inequality at the street level of public administration.

Source: Public Management Review

DOI: 10.1080/14719037.2026.2723226

Authors: Ofri Shalev Greenman, Einat Lavee

Institution: University of Haifa

Language: English

Topic: Public Policy and Administration Research

Subfield: Public Administration

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Gender equality, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Israel Science Foundation