Isn't the glass ceiling thick enough? Mapping perceptions on women's economic empowerment in North-West Region of Romania

Gender-biased perceptions can influence the amplitude of vertical segregation within a region, as women face covert social obstacles and patriarchal attitudes in their struggle for career advancement. This study proposes a mixed methodology for analysing the underlying causes of the existing glass ceiling in North-West Region of Romania. Qualitative data collection techniques are mixed with statistical and spatial analysis in order to identify spatial clusters of communities with high levels of gender prejudice. Using a CATI cross-sectional survey, a total of 1007 respondents expressed their perception on gender equity and women's economic empowerment opportunities. The identified biases are then included in Geographically Weighted Regressions that can highlight other objective causes for patriarchal mentalities by analysing a series of explanatory variables (unemployment, education rates, local investments, LHDI, etc.). Results show the impact local development levels can have on the upsurge of gender inequalities, despite the pre-existing cultural and psychological features.