Davlatova Shodiyona | Uzbekistan

Gender equality and feminism are topics that cause a lot of debate and controversy in today’s society. Issues related to women’s rights, their role in society, and the struggle for equality are becoming increasingly relevant. The consideration of the issue of women as a social problem is associated with feminism. In scientific literature, this ontological genesis and epistemological essence of feminism are interpreted primarily in connection with the struggle for human rights and freedoms. Various socio-political movements that emerged in the 19th century, the widespread spread of views on human rights, create the basis for feminism. Therefore, by the middle of the 19th century, the existence of the women’s issue was recognized not only in books, but also in state policies. In 1779, the French philosopher J. Condorcet, with his “Declaration of the Rights of the Citizen and of Women“, and Olympia de Gouges, with his “Declaration of the Rights of the Citizen and of Women”, laid the foundation for the movement for women’s social and political rights in Europe and later in the United States. From this period, the concepts of “feminism” and “feminist” emerged. In fact, the concept of “feminism” is French Feminist is derived from the word. “Femina” means woman. Gender comes from the Latin word genus (in English gender), which means sex in Uzbek. The concept of gender studies began to enter science in the middle of the 20th century. The term gender was first used in his scientific research by New Zealand psychologist John Mani in 1952. Later, in 1963, at the International Conference of Psychologists in Stockholm, American scientist Robert Stoller introduced the term gender to science through his report on the concepts of self-awareness of social gender in society, and proposed to study gender into biological and cultural types. R. Stoller considered it appropriate to study biological sex (sex) as an object of research in biology and physiology, and cultural sex (gender), that is, gender as an object of research in psychology and social science. The term was also coined by English sociologist Anne Oakley in 1972 in her scientific work “Sex, Gender, and Society.”

According to A.A. Huseynova, feminism is considered a movement that protects the socio-political equality of women. Feminism promotes the struggle for women to have equal rights with men in the economic, socio-political and cultural spheres, as well as active participation in socio-political life… Therefore, it has become a women’s ideology, which sets the main goal of equality of people (or rather, genders). If feminism as an idea expresses the equal rights and opportunities of women with men in the socio-political and economic spheres of society, then as an ideology it is a cultural movement aimed at ensuring that women have equal rights and opportunities with men and against all forms of discrimination against women. In a narrow sense, feminism is a movement aimed at transforming the “first enslaved woman” in the history of mankind into an equal subject of society. A.A. Huseynova expresses the right view when she says that “feminism is a movement against the domination of one sex over the other.” She also says that “feminism is not a mono-gender movement consisting only of women. It also includes all humane men who have made the protection of democratic ideas and human rights the meaning of their lives”.

“Feminism is a movement against all social phenomena that contradict the bio-sociological nature of man, including inhuman realities such as gender reassignment, lesbianism, homosexuality, prostitution, and “human trafficking.” In recent years, such inhuman phenomena that contradict the bio-sociological nature of man have escalated, and the media and even some countries are paving the way for this. The most tragic thing is that some international organizations support such situations, and some politicians, with their indifference and irresponsibility, are paving the way for their escalation.

“Gender philosophy” primarily covers the socio-psychological and pedagogical aspects of the relationship between men and women, boys and girls. This concept develops depending on new social views and culture. The concepts of matriarchy or patriarchy in history are a vivid example of this. In the field of education, the concept of gender does not apply only to girls, because by its nature it describes and describes the relationship between boys and girls, that is, it studies the division of social roles, forms of activity, the presence of specific features in the behavior and psychological characteristics of individuals. Gender equality is a state in which men and women have equal rights, opportunities and access to resources. This is not only a matter of human rights, but also an important factor in the sustainable development of society.

Gender equality means that every person, regardless of gender, should have the opportunity to realize their potential, to receive education, to work and to participate in decision-making. It is no coincidence that the responsibility for drafting such an important document as the Universal Declaration was entrusted to the Committee headed by Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt as an honorable task. It was from this time that the issue of women and girls began to gain international importance. Achieving equal access to the same opportunities, rights and responsibilities in all areas of society for women and men was considered the general goal of the principle of gender equality.

Gender equality is a systematic approach and a long-term process. It cannot be instilled only in a certain part of education or only through the institution of the family. Therefore, ensuring the mutual cooperation of the family-community-education system in the formation of a healthy worldview related to gender in the social consciousness is of urgent importance.

The main connection between feminism and gender equality is that both strive to ensure equality between the sexes in society. While feminism is aimed at protecting women and expanding their rights, gender equality is an expanded form of this general approach and means equality between all sexes.

Feminism is a movement that seeks to bring about social change, primarily by empowering women, while gender equality seeks to bring about these changes in all segments of society.

Feminism can be used as a means to achieve the goals of gender equality. Both concepts aim to bring about social change, justice, and gender equality, but their paths may differ.

In conclusion, it can be said that while feminism is a social movement that expresses the struggle of women for their rights and freedoms, “gender” is a concept that refers to the relationship between men and women. Gender equality and feminism are closely related to human rights, justice and democratic values in today’s world. The main idea of feminism is that every person, regardless of gender, has the right to fully realize their potential. Ensuring gender equality brings beneficial results not only for women, but also for society as a whole. . In this regard, the joint and coordinated activities of all sectors of society – state structures, public organizations, business entities, trade unions and the general population – are of great importance.

Read: Question of Balanced Parenting

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Davlatova Shodiyona is 2nd year student of the “International Relations” department of the “Foreign Policy and International Economic Relations” faculty of Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, Uzbekistan. She is amateur poetess. Her poems and stories have been published in several magazines and newspapers.

The post Concepts of gender equality and feminism first appeared on Sindh Courier.

 By Amir Murtaza

In today’s fast-paced world, companies that prioritize Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) aren’t just doing the right thing—they’re getting ahead. GESI fosters a diverse and inclusive environment, attracting top talent, building customer loyalty, and promoting sustainability. In the context of Pakistan, where cultural and social dynamics often pose unique challenges, the integration of GESI into business practices is not only beneficial but essential for long-term success.

 The Power of GESI in the Workplace

Imagine a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. GESI makes that a reality. By integrating GESI into their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy, companies in Pakistan can showcase a commitment to ethical and responsible practices. This translates to a stronger brand and a competitive edge in both local and international markets.

The benefits of GESI extend even further. Diverse teams bring a wider range of perspectives to the table, leading to more creative solutions and better decision-making. Additionally, a company that reflects the demographics of its customer base is more likely to understand their needs and build stronger relationships. This is particularly crucial in Pakistan, where understanding the diverse cultural and social nuances can make a significant difference in business success.

Implementing GESI isn’t just about checking a box. It’s about creating a culture where everyone feels comfortable bringing their whole selves to work. This can be achieved through unconscious bias training, creating clear policies against discrimination, and ensuring equal opportunities for advancement. In a country like Pakistan, where gender roles are traditionally defined, such measures can be transformative.

The Critical Need for Gender Equality in Pakistan

In Pakistan, gender inequality remains a significant barrier to economic and social development. Women make up nearly half of the population, yet their participation in the workforce is disproportionately low. Addressing this imbalance is not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity. When women are empowered and included in the workforce, the overall productivity and GDP of the country can see substantial improvements.

Gender equality in the workplace can also lead to enhanced social stability. Empowered women contribute to healthier, better-educated families, which in turn fosters a more stable society. Companies that prioritize gender equality can play a pivotal role in this transformation, setting examples for others to follow and creating a ripple effect throughout the community.

Social Inclusion: A Path to Comprehensive Growth

Social inclusion goes hand-in-hand with gender equality, encompassing not just gender but also other aspects such as ethnicity, age, disability, and socioeconomic status. In Pakistan, where social stratification can be pronounced, fostering an inclusive environment is crucial. Social inclusion ensures that all individuals have the opportunity to participate fully in economic, social, and political life, which can lead to more cohesive and resilient communities.

Read: Women entrepreneurs in Pakistan face formidable challenges

For businesses, promoting social inclusion can result in a more diverse talent pool, richer perspectives, and greater innovation. By breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity, companies can tap into the vast potential of marginalized groups, driving creativity and productivity. Moreover, inclusive businesses are better positioned to cater to a diverse customer base, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

GESI Strategies for Women Entrepreneurs in Pakistan

Pakistan has a growing number of inspiring women entrepreneurs. However, social and cultural barriers can make navigating the business world challenging. Here are some GESI strategies specifically for women entrepreneurs in Pakistan:

Building Your Network

Building your network is crucial for women entrepreneurs in Pakistan. Connect with women-focused organizations such as the Karandaaz Pakistan or LadiesFund for mentorship, training, and networking opportunities with other female entrepreneurs. Additionally, joining industry-specific associations can help you connect with potential partners and clients, as well as access valuable industry knowledge.

Access to Capital

Access to capital is essential for the growth of women-led businesses in Pakistan. Explore microfinance options from institutions that cater specifically to women entrepreneurs. Look into government programs offering loans or grants for women-owned businesses. Additionally, consider pitching your business idea to angel investor networks that support women-led startups.

Developing Your Business

To develop your business, start by identifying a gap in the market where your product or service can cater specifically to women’s needs. Leverage social media and online platforms for digital marketing to reach a wider audience and showcase your business. Additionally, seek guidance from experienced mentors or businesswomen who can provide valuable insights and support.

Building a Supportive Workplace

Building a supportive workplace is essential for fostering an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive. Start by offering flexible work hours or remote work options to accommodate women with family responsibilities, ensuring they can balance their professional and personal lives effectively. Implement diversity and inclusion training to educate yourself and your employees on unconscious bias, promoting a work environment that is respectful and inclusive for everyone. Additionally, foster a sense of community within your company by creating support networks or employee resource groups for women, providing them with a platform for mutual support, networking, and professional growth.

Advocacy and Awareness

Advocacy and awareness are powerful tools for empowering women entrepreneurs in Pakistan. By sharing your story, you can use your platform to inspire other women, illustrating the challenges you’ve overcome and the successes you’ve achieved in your entrepreneurial journey. This not only motivates others but also builds a community of shared experiences and support. Additionally, actively support other women entrepreneurs by collaborating with women-owned businesses, which can create synergistic opportunities and foster mutual growth. Mentoring aspiring female entrepreneurs is another impactful way to contribute, offering guidance, knowledge, and encouragement to those navigating the early stages of their business ventures.

By implementing these GESI strategies, Pakistani women entrepreneurs can empower themselves, build successful businesses, and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable business landscape. In a country where the economic participation of women is still evolving, these steps can lead to significant positive change, driving economic growth and social progress.

Incorporating GESI into business practices in Pakistan is not merely a trend but a necessity for sustainable growth. It fosters innovation, enhances brand reputation, and builds a more resilient and adaptable workforce. As more companies and entrepreneurs embrace these principles, the business landscape in Pakistan will become more inclusive, dynamic, and successful. Gender equality and social inclusion are not just ethical imperatives but strategic advantages that can drive profound economic and social transformations across the country.

Read also: Empowering Women to Unlock their Financial Potential

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Amir Murtaza is a gender expert with a dedicated focus on gender-based violence, gender equality and social inclusion. He can be reached at amirmurtaza1@hotmail.com.

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Tashkent

Uzbekistan has scored 82.5 out of 100 points in the World Bank’s “Women, Business, and the Law” rating, securing a position among the top five countries that have made significant progress towards gender equality in the legal sphere, Podrobno.uz reports.

World Bank experts assessed the status of women in 190 countries based on indicators such as safety, freedom of movement, employment, wage equality, marriage, parenthood, childcare, entrepreneurship, property rights, and pension provision. The findings were presented in the report titled “Women, Business, and the Law.”

The latest report evaluated changes in the laws of countries. During the analyzed period, only 18 countries worldwide implemented legal reforms aimed at ensuring gender equality, and Uzbekistan was among them.

Uzbekistan entered the top five countries that achieved significant progress. Since October 2022, Uzbekistan has implemented four important legal reforms that have improved the status of women.

Specifically, regulations were enacted to ensure equal pay for work of equal value between women and men, restrictions on women’s employment in certain industries were lifted, and norms protecting women from domestic violence were introduced.

Read: Navigating Gender Roles, Religion, and Patriarchy: Women’s Rights in Pakistani Society

These reforms positively impacted the improvement of Uzbekistan’s positions in two key indicators: “wage equality” and “marriage,” allowing the country to increase its rating by 11.9 points. In total, Uzbekistan scored 82.5 out of 100 points in the “Women, Business, and the Law 2024” index. In terms of points, Uzbekistan is on par with Singapore, Turkey, and the UAE, and it demonstrates the best results in Central Asia.

“The World Bank welcomes the progress made by Uzbekistan in advancing gender equality, as noted in the latest ‘Women, Business, and the Law’ report. Recent legal reforms have significantly expanded civil, labor, and economic rights for women. We were pleased to contribute to the implementation of these reforms,” remarked Tatiana Proskuryakova, the World Bank’s Regional Director for Central Asia.

It is noted that the World Bank supported reforms in Uzbekistan by providing the necessary analytical and financial assistance to the government.

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 Courtesy: Central Asian Light (Posted on March 5, 2024) 

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Sujawal, Sindh  

The speakers at the different sessions of the second day of the three-day Sujawal Youth STEAM Learning Festival stressed for changing patriarchal norms will play instrumental role in bringing gender equality in education system.

Discussing ‘Super Women: Gender Gap in STEAM education SDG 4, 5 and Widening GPI’ Sidra Sadozai emphasized the irreplaceable role of mothers, asserting that the children showcasing their talents at festivals owe their presence to the support of their mothers. She advocated for encouraging the participation of women in all aspects of life to foster integrity.

Makal Shah, hailing from a Syed family, broke societal taboos by entering the development sector in 2004. Despite facing obstacles preventing her from attending university due to stereotypes, she became the sole woman in her family to contribute to this field, undeterred by hindrances.

Advocating for inclusive education, she stressed the need to eliminate gender-based segregation in schools, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment that encourages participation from all genders to bridge the gender gap.

Sonal Dhanani highlighted the positive impact of women leadership in schools on increasing girls’ enrollment. She urged the government to design strategies and advocacy to update curricula for STEM learning, praising the projects showcased by girls in festivals, which deserve appreciation and can encourage more participation in STEM fields.

Kapil Dev praised Dr. Soomar Khoso’s exemplary work in a remote village but acknowledged challenges in schools, emphasizing the need for qualified teachers and advanced facilities. He raised concerns about the lack of security and demand for girls’ education, advocating for increased female representation in policy-making and leadership roles. “Changing patriarchal norms will play instrumental role in bringing gender equality in education system,” he added.

Khushboo shed light on the challenges in sending girls to schools in remote areas, proposing a strategy akin to polio vaccination workers going door-to-door. She suggested that government initiatives should actively promote girl education, engaging with communities to overcome societal barriers.

Also read: Experts at Karachi Youth STEM Learning Festival call for redesigning the curriculum

In a discussion on ‘jobs of tomorrow? Be your own boss. Are we preparing our students?’ Hameed Dipali highlighted that there is still no concept of career counseling in the school framework. Children lack exposure to various fields and the job market because our education system is unaware of market demands. Consequently, youngsters often fall short of meeting job criteria due to a lack of practical knowledge.

Yaqub Pechi added that our mindset still revolves around government jobs, and we need to empower our young cadre to take risks and foster entrepreneurial growth. Schools themselves fail to encourage students to pursue business or startup ventures.

Sidra Sadozai pointed out the existence of a class system in our community. Those with resources can opt for private schools, while another class struggles for access to government schools. We lack a unified option, and our industries have filters favoring high-ranking universities, leaving the public sector education sector struggling to meet the demand.

She emphasized the need for policy reform to establish a one-window education mechanism. This would enable children to access opportunities without facing discrimination.

Also read: Sujawal Youth STEAM Learning Festival begins today

Raja Sharma suggests that upon graduating from a university, individuals seeking employment may encounter challenges as industries often require prior experience. To address this, fresh graduates are advised to pursue job opportunities to gain valuable experience. The lack of job prospects in certain disciplines can create insecurity among recent graduates, contributing to a gap in their professional development.

Advocate Omer Gul Buriro moderated a diverse and interactive discussion on the orientation of UNCRC Articles, featuring children as speakers. The children emphasized that parents should listen to them, addressing their queries and facilitating learning. They highlighted the importance of responsive communication for children’s growth and learning.

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SHOUKAT LOHAR

Feminism is a social, political, and cultural movement that advocates for women’s rights and equality. It aims to end gender-based discrimination and oppression, promote women’s autonomy, and challenge patriarchal structures that limit women’s opportunities and agency. Feminism has a rich and complex history, with roots dating back to the 19th century. Let’s try to understand its emergence step by step.

Historical Background

The feminist movement emerged in the late 19th century as a response to the social and political inequality faced by women. At the time, women were denied the right to vote, limited in their access to education, and barred from many professions. Feminism was initially focused on securing women’s rights, especially the right to vote, which was achieved in many countries in the early 20th century.

In the 1960s and 1970s, feminism entered a new phase known as the second wave. This period was characterized by a focus on issues such as reproductive rights, gender-based violence, and workplace discrimination. In addition to legal and political activism, second-wave feminists also engaged in cultural and artistic expression, using literature, film, and art to challenge gender norms and stereotypes.

The third wave of feminism emerged in the 1990s and continued into the 21st century. This phase was characterized by a more intersectional approach, which recognized that issues of gender are intertwined with other forms of oppression, such as race, class, and sexuality. Third-wave feminists also focused on issues such as body positivity, sex-positive feminism, and the inclusion of transgender and non-binary people in the movement.

Impact of Feminism

Feminism has had a profound impact on societies around the world. One of the most significant achievements of the feminist movement has been the legal and political gains made by women. Women’s suffrage, reproductive rights, and workplace equality are just a few of the areas where feminist activism has led to tangible change.

Feminism has also had a cultural impact, challenging gender norms and stereotypes and promoting greater representation of women and non-binary people in media and the arts. Feminist literature, film, and art have given voice to previously marginalized perspectives and created new cultural narratives that challenge patriarchal structures.

Perhaps most importantly, feminism has helped to raise awareness of the pervasive nature of gender-based discrimination and violence. By shining a spotlight on issues such as sexual harassment, domestic violence, and human trafficking, feminists have helped to create a more informed and empathetic society that is better equipped to address these issues.

Implications of Feminism

Despite the significant gains made by the feminist movement, there is still much work to be done. Gender-based discrimination and violence persist in many parts of the world, and the fight for gender equality remains an ongoing struggle.

One of the key implications of feminism is the need for greater intersectionality. The feminist movement must be inclusive of the experiences of people from diverse backgrounds and recognize that issues of gender are intertwined with other forms of oppression. This means acknowledging the unique challenges faced by women of color, LGBTQ+ people, and those from low-income backgrounds.

Another implication of feminism is the need for continued activism and advocacy. While legal and political gains have been made, these gains are not always reflected in the lived experiences of women and non-binary people. Attitudes and cultural norms can be slow to change, and the fight for gender equality and equity.

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Shoukat Lohar is Assistant professor in English at Mehran University of Engineering and Technology Jamshoro. He can be reached at Shoukat.ali@faculty.muet.edu.pk

The post Feminism: Background and Impact first appeared on Sindh Courier.

After a thorough analysis, I figured out several things about feminism that I will share here.

Firstly we should know that what feminism means.

The feminism means believing that the men and women have equal rights. If we look around this world, we can know several issues related to feminism. There is no equality between the rights of men and women. The rights activist are striving since decades for the rights that women deserved.

As regards situation in Pakistan, we know that the girl child faces a lot of discrimination. It starts from the womb and ends on female foeticide. A male child always gets more and more response than a female child. This gender inequality still exist among us. Not only this but, most of the time, a female child is treated inferiorly and, this is engraved in the mind of a female child. Male childbirth is admired, as opposed to female children.

Most people think that a female child or girl is a burden upon them until they got her married. Such people think why to invest money in her as she will eventually get married. They do not realize that an educated girl not only becomes a good sister or daughter but also an amazing mother. It is a mother is a person who teaches her child the difference between bad and good, wrong and right, and teaches her child a way which will lead him or her to the right path. If the women do not know the difference between good and bad, wrong and right by herself how she can teach her child the way he or she needs.

I was trying to understand why most of the people are still illiterate in Pakistan. Now I realize that gender discrimination is also a great reason behind it – most people are not educating their daughters and sisters or wives.

Not only is this but sexual harassment of girls also involved in it. If we look around in our country, we will know that there is a large number of girls who are molested. Men have a mindset that they are privileged but that does not mean that they have right to abuse or harass women.

Most of the people abuse them physically and others do it by their eyes and behavior. If a woman goes louder upon that they start accusing her.

Many people do not ask their daughters’ choice for marriage, and do not think whether she would be happy with the person they are getting her married.

In certain cases people give the women the independence to show off but, they do not provide them their interdependence.

Most common issues are that they do not just abuse physically but mentally also. On the contrary, a woman always thinks about the respect of the family and herself too.

Now it’s time to support those women who are not provided their rights. The people must reset their mindset.

Sumaya Shahid Chandio

Nawabshah Sindh

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Islamabad

The United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN WOMEN) has announced the launch of its Strategic Note (SN) to promote gender equality and the empowerment of women & girls in Pakistan.

The objective of the launch event was to inform all stakeholders and partners of its strategic priorities for the period starting from 2023- 2027.

Welcoming the participants, Country Representative, UN Women Pakistan, Sharmeela Rassool said that the UN Women Strategic Note consists of 5 output areas contributing to a single outcome that is advancing gender equality and women empowerment. “UN Women Pakistan focus is to position women as change agents in every sector and creating environment for them to become their own solution architects.”

The SN is formulated and developed through an inclusive process and is aligned with UNSDCF- 2023-2027. In addition, the SN guides the UN Women’s work in the country.

Head of Resident Coordinator’s Office, Shah Nasir Khan said, “Gender equality and women empowerment is a guiding principle that applies to everything the UN does. I wish Strategic Note’s implementation will shift power structures and the economic, social, and political systems that perpetuate discrimination.”

In his keynote speech Chief Justice Federal Shariat Court, Dr. Syed Muhammad Answer said, “Women and girls play an important part in the development of any country. I commend UN Women and congratulate the entire team on launching this important plan which will ensure women and girls living secure and prosperous lives which, are free from any form of violence and benefiting from non-discriminatory legislation.”

The thematic focus of the SN Outcome aligns with the thematic priorities of the UN Women’s Global Strategic Plan and includes both traditional and emerging areas of work: normative frameworks, data architectures, innovative gender financing, access to goods, services and resources, voice agency and leadership and social norm change. Embedded into the SN structure are linkages and complementarities across the five outputs, including cross-cutting UN system coordination, which results in an SN outcome that is envisioned to be greater than the sum of its parts.

The chairperson, NCSW Ms. Nilofar Bakhtiar, Team leader European Union Mr. Sven Ruesh, Dr. Maha Noor Deputy Ambassador the Royal Norwegian Embassy, Ms. Saadia Khan, Commissioner, SECP along with UN Women team also spoke at the launching event. (PR)

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By Pirkash Kumbhani

Feminism is the name of movement which emphasizes for equal rights for woman as man in the society. Men and women are two essential characters of human life. Some people believe that men and women are absolutely equal in society while some people consider the men being superior. However, throughout the human history, woman was seen as inferior to man. The purpose of her existence was limited to doing tiring domestic chores, giving birth to babies and rearing them. They were domesticated objectified and kept only for sexual pleasure and was physically battered and mentally traumatized.

In 21st century, in most countries, and even in our own country – Islamic Republic of Pakistan, woman is still confined into four walls of the house with a man of her brother and father’s choice. For that reason, in many societies woman can’t enjoy an independent status. Mostly in rural areas woman is not asked about her will in choosing her life partner and she is forcedly married to a man who is twice in her age. Forced marriage, forced pregnancy and forced abortion are very accepted in modern societies. Other than these issues, gang rapes, sexual harassment, divorce in unhealthy relationship and demand for ‘sex in exchange’ of higher school grades or job promotion are also prevalent and it can’t be denied either in under-developed, developing, developed and even Muslim countries of the world.

As in education institution, there is wide discrepancy regarding the gender roles. An African proverb has been motivating people that “If you educate a man, you educate an individual. But if you educate a woman, you educate a nation” but contrary to this proverb, in many countries women are still deprived of their basic rights of education. They are denied to go to school and also parents seldom invest in girls’ education. The girls are married at the age of about thirteen, fourteen years.

Why man is doing so? Why the man is playing with their life? Why don’t they look into innocent eyes of girls? Why they don’t let small girl to live their sweet and memorable childhood?  Why they keep them away from their right of education?

We are living in patriarchal society in which man hold almost all the power and enjoy greater opportunities then woman. Mostly the men who are in power they never think about the development of country. They are very selfish and want their own benefit only and only.

According to certain statistics, in the year 2016, 2.9 per 100,000 women/girls ended their lives. Mostly young females commit suicide due to the name-calling, black-mailing, insulting, premature pregnancy, domestic problems and socioeconomic pressure that affect women mentally and emotionally which leads them to commit suicide.  In rural areas women are still unaware in the sense of freedom and lack of awareness in self-worth.  According to United Nations, one in three women has experienced physical and sexual violence at some point of life.  Mostly in patriarchal society woman has been oppressed by man and there is beating, hair-grabbing, kicking, scratching, pushing, punching, choking, burning and acid throwing a very common practice. In Pakistan 73 cases of acid throwing were reported in 2016.

Men and women are different biologically but also to some extent they are different socially and emotionally. Being different biologically, we grow up differently, in different atmosphere and are encouraged in different activities, praised in different ways influenced by race, culture, politics, religion and education. This kind of obsolete social structure divides us as male and female and masculine and feminine gender.

Pirkash Kumbhani

Pirkash Kumbhani, hailing from Tharparkar, is final year student at Department of English Language and Literature, University of Sindh Jamshoro.

The post Gender Equality is a Human Fight, not a Female Fight first appeared on Sindh Courier.

By Nazarul Islam

Yes, women in India and Pakistan and Bangladesh have to seek redemption! Redemption from the divisive politics based on gender, caste and religion, redemption from the corruption which is eating our lives like termites, redemption from misery of poverty, redemption from the sins of our venal politicians.

Women need good governance and accountability. An individual has to fight for the things he rightfully deserves. People do not need crutches of any kind if the basic conditions of nation are conducive to their growth. It’s ridiculous; people are first deprived of basic amenities, denied their dues and then offered carrots to benefit the vote bank politics.

A study of the gender roles in advertisements in the countries of the subcontinent has revealed, expectedly, that they closely reflect the deep biases that are found in society as such. Again, a recent study conducted jointly by UNICEF and the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, analyzed the top 1,000 most viewed ads in 2019 on television and on the YouTube.

Perceptions in India about gender bias and scattered studies of representation and attitudes in the media are wide and varied. The study was a major attempt to make a systematic analysis of gender representation in ads in the country. It had reflected that girls and women are well-represented as characters to the extent of 49.6 per cent, and they take up 59.7 per cent of the screen time and 56.3 per cent of the speaking time.

However, their roles confirm entrenched stereotypes, and they mostly sell domestic and beauty products to female consumers. Their beauty and charm are used to make the products attractive.

Women are less likely to be seen as working women in paid jobs, and those in high places are extremely rare.

The optics of this region reflects Women who are usually seen in the kitchen, doing domestic chores and recommending products which are usually used by women. They are also shown as responsible for childcare and for shopping but are less likely to be seen in public spaces.

Most often, women are shown as beautiful and sometimes scantily dressed. Female characters are nine times more likely to be shown as attractive, six times more likely to seen in revealing clothing and five times more likely to be sexually objectified than male characters.

They are rarely shown as decision-makers outside their homes. Men are also represented true to the stereotypes about them, having power and wealth and dominating.

Media Advertisements, like art and literature, reflect the biases, prejudices and attitudes in society. But they don’t take the critical view that art and literature sometimes take. Ads, in fact, make use of gender stereotypes to sell things and to convey commercial messages.

Children who watch these advertisements are likely to imbibe these messages and that influences their attitudes in later life. Ideas about family, gender roles and man-woman relationships are deeply influenced by these narratives.

Therefore, dismantling the stereotypes and removing the biases in advertisements is important in a society that aspires to gender equality. When women are as good as men in every respect, it is wrong to project only their traditional roles in society.

The study of women in our societies of Bangladesh, Pakistan and India—both rural and urban should serve as a guide to ad-makers who should critically examine the messages being conveyed by their work. Since ads and social perceptions are mutually dependent and reinforcing, there is also the need for change on both sides.

Doesn’t it seem strange that the people worshiping their Gods hate and isolate the creatures created by the god on the grounds of gender, religion, skin tone and caste?

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About the Author

The Bengal-born writer Nazarul Islam is a senior educationist based in USA. He writes for Sindh Courier and the newspapers of Bangladesh, India and America. He is author of a recently published book ‘Chasing Hope’ – a compilation of his 119 articles.

The post Zero Tolerance for Gender Bias…. first appeared on Sindh Courier.