Final answer:
The low percentage of women in international assignments is largely due to gender discrimination, including the effects of the glass ceiling and societal gender roles, rather than a simple lack of qualifications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding the Low Percentage of Women in International Assignments
The low percentage of women chosen for international assignments in the United States can be attributed to a combination of factors. Gender Discrimination is one of the primary reasons for this disparity. The concept of the glass ceiling is relevant here, suggesting an invisible barrier that prevents many women from reaching the highest levels of leadership. This barrier can be due to stereotypes about women’s capabilities and aggressiveness, lack of encouragement, and role models in leadership positions. Moreover, societal expectations regarding gender roles, particularly in child-rearing and family care, can also hinder women's availability and willingness to take on such roles due to family-related concerns.
Furthermore, cultural misunderstandings and biases about women's roles can affect women's opportunities in male-dominated societies. This is compounded for women from under-represented groups who face additional discrimination. The difficulties are not solely due to individual employer decisions but are also rooted in systemic social patterns of discrimination. While lack of qualifications could be a factor in some cases, it is often overshadowed by the broader issues of societal and workplace inequality. Legal and ethical practices demand that organizations work toward eliminating these barriers and promoting equity among all genders.