Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Quotas refer to a predetermined number or percentage of seats or positions that are reserved for specific groups, such as women or ethnic minorities, in order to promote representation and diversity.
Related terms
Affirmative Action: Policies that aim to address historical inequalities by giving preferential treatment or opportunities to disadvantaged groups.
Minority Rights: Protections and privileges granted to individuals belonging to minority groups in order to prevent discrimination and ensure equal treatment.
Representation: The act of speaking or acting on behalf of someone else; in the context of politics, it refers to the presence and participation of diverse groups in decision-making processes.