The Glass Ceiling in Academia: Lessons from International Research and the Necessity of Studying the Thai Context

Abstract

          This article aims to synthesize and analyze knowledge about the "glass ceiling" phenomenon in academia, focusing on structural and cultural factors affecting the advancement of female academics in universities. Literature reviews from domestic and international research indicate that despite long-standing efforts to promote gender equality, women in academia still face invisible barriers hindering their promotion to senior positions.  Key factors creating the glass ceiling include vertical and horizontal gender segregation, unfairness in performance evaluation processes, lack of access to resources and networks, and heavy, gender-imbalanced workloads. Moreover, cultural factors such as stereotypes and implicit biases, conflicts between gender roles and leadership roles, and the lack of female role models remain significant obstacles to the advancement of female academics. This article highlights the urgent need for systematic study of the glass ceiling phenomenon in Thai universities, as the lack of empirical data and in-depth analysis on gender inequality in Thai higher education impedes positive change for female academics. Studying this issue will fill knowledge gaps in the Thai context, stimulate social awareness, and provide a foundation for developing appropriate policies, leading to enhanced equality and quality in Thai higher education institutions.