Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women in a Changing World

International Women’s Day 2024 theme is “Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women in a Changing World.” India journeys toward gender equality, despite ongoing challenges, celebrates victories, opines Arindam, exclusively for Different Truths.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day in 2024, it’s essential to reflect on the progress made and the challenges that still lie ahead in the pursuit of gender equality. This year’s theme, “Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women in a Changing World,” encapsulates the ongoing struggle for women’s rights and empowerment globally.

In recent years, we have witnessed significant strides towards gender equality in various spheres of life. Women are increasingly breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes in politics. business, science, and beyond. a Harris becoming the first female Vice President of the United States to Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s historic appointment as the first female Director-General of the World Trade In organizationsions, women are making their mark on the world stage like never before. 

Barriers and Discrimination

However, despite these achievements, women continue to face systemic barriers and entrenched discrimination in many parts of the world. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing gender inequalities, disproportionately affecting women in terms of job losses, caregiving responsibilities, and domestic violence. The global economic fallout has pushed millions of women into poverty, further exacerbating gender disparities.

In addition to economic challenges, women continue to face obstacles in accessing education, healthcare, and reproductive rights. In countries where patriarchal norms prevail, women and girls are often denied basic rights and subjected to harmful practices such as child marriage, female genital mutilation, and honor killings.

Furthermore, the digital gender gap remains a pressing issue, with women being underrepresented in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Closing this gap requires concerted efforts to provide girls with equal opportunities for education and training in STEM disciplines. 

Addressing Challenges

Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that involves governments, civil society, and the private sector, and individuals alike. Policies must be implemented to promote gender equality. equality, including laws that protect women’s rights and promote equal pay for equal work, and combat gender-based violence.

Moreover, efforts to challenge gender stereotypes and promote positive representations of women in media and popular culture are crucial. By challenging harmful gender norms and promoting diverse and inclusive narratives, we can empower women and girls to pursue their aspirations and ambitions without fear of discrimination or prejudice.

Gender Equality

Education also plays a pivotal role in empowering women and girls to assert their rights and advocate for gender equality. By providing girls with quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for women, we can equip them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to participate fully in society and contribute to positive social change.

On this International Women’s Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to breaking barriers and empowering women in a changing world. By working together and supporting one another, we can create a more equitable and inclusive society where every woman and girl could thrive and fulfill her potential. The journey towards gender equality may be long and challenging, but together, we can make it a reality. 

While the global theme for 2024 is “Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women in a Changing World,” India’s journey towards gender equality offers a unique perspective.

 Let’s recaptulate the two earlier themes of the IWD in Different Truths in the years 2017 and 2018.

Advancement Despite Obstacles

Despite a long history of discrimination, the feminist movement has made significant strides. The political awareness and pride displayed by young Dalit and Muslim women interviewed in Uttar Pradesh during the 2017 elections show that empowerment is reaching even marginalized communities. These women, facing economic hardship, exuded a confidence that challenged traditional expectations.

Challenges Remain

The fight is far from over. Events like the online harassment Gurmehar Kaur experienced and the horrifying crimes committed against women in Kerala highlight the ongoing violence and resistance to equality. However, brave women who continue to push boundaries defy these incidents.

Celebrating Resilience

The theme of International Women’s Day 2018, inspired by Maya Angelou’s poem “Still I Rise,” resonates deeply in India. We celebrate the millions of voiceless women who endure hardship yet display unwavering resilience. They are the backbone of families and communities, persevering through challenges.

Breaking the Dichotomy

The patriarchal system often portrays women as either goddesses or witches, pure or condemned. We reject this restrictive view and commend the women on the editorial board of International Women’s Day for their contributions.

Moving Forward

India’s story on International Women’s Day is one of both progress and ongoing struggle. By acknowledging the challenges and celebrating the victories, we can work towards a future where all women and girls can thrive.

References:

1.     Kamala Harris Becomes First Female, First Black Vice President of the United States: https://www.npr.org/sections/inauguration-day-live-updates/2021/01/20/958743170/kamala-harris-becomes-the-first-female-first-black-vice-president-of-the-united- 

2.     Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Makes History as First Female Director-General of the World Trade Organization: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-56168874

3.     COVID-19 and the Gendered Impacts on Women: https://www.unwomen.org/en/news/in-focus/in-focus-gender-equality-in-covid-19-response

4.     Closing the Digital Gender Gap: https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2018/06/report-calls-for-action-to-close-digital-gender-gap/

5.     Promoting Gender Equality Through Education: https://en.unesco.org/news/promoting-gender-equality-through-education

Picture design by Anumita Roy