Women's Rights Violations

In 1893, New Zealand set a historic precedent by granting women the right to vote in national elections, igniting a global movement towards gender equality. Despite this progress, numerous regions around the world still bar women from political participation. According to Amnesty International, countries like Syria, Afghanistan, and Pakistan impose significant barriers, making it exceedingly difficult for women to exercise their voting rights.

REPRODUCTIVE AND SEXUAL RIGHTS

Women’s autonomy over their bodies remains a fundamental human right, yet in many parts of the world, women face pervasive threats such as gender violence, rape, forced pregnancy, and coerced abortions. Upholding women’s ability to make decisions regarding their reproductive and sexual health is imperative.

GENERAL FREEDOM

The freedom to move and act autonomously is a privilege denied to countless women globally. Restrictions on obtaining passports, driving, or traveling independently without a male guardian are commonplace, infringing upon women’s basic rights.

LOWER PAY

Despite efforts to bridge the gender pay gap, disparities persist. The US Department of Labor reports that women earn approximately 82 cents for every dollar earned by men, highlighting ongoing wage inequality that is even more pronounced in other parts of the world.

ACCESS TO EDUCATION

Millions of girls worldwide face formidable barriers to education, including poverty, child marriage, and gender-based violence. According to Unicef, an estimated 129 million girls are out of school, underscoring the urgent need to address systemic obstacles hindering girls’ access to education.

INADEQUATE HEALTHCARE

Access to quality healthcare remains elusive for many women, with disparities in treatment and recognition of women’s health concerns persisting globally. Equal access to healthcare is a fundamental human right that must be extended to women on par with men.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Women endure pervasive sexual harassment, ranging from verbal abuse to physical assault, undermining their sense of safety and dignity. A recent survey revealed alarming rates of harassment, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address this pervasive issue.

SHELTER

Safe housing is a fundamental human need, yet millions of women worldwide lack secure living arrangements. The United Nations estimates that 1.6 billion people live in inadequate housing conditions, exacerbating vulnerabilities for women and girls.

THE RIGHT TO WORK

In many countries, women face legal barriers that restrict their ability to enter the workforce and earn a livelihood comparable to men. Addressing gender-based discrimination in employment is essential for promoting women’s economic empowerment and independence.

DIVORCE

Obtaining a divorce remains a complex and often inaccessible process for many women, particularly in countries that prohibit or severely restrict divorce. Legal reforms are necessary to ensure equitable access to divorce for women.

SAFETY

Women’s safety is paramount, yet pervasive insecurity persists in many communities worldwide. Addressing the root causes of violence against women is essential for creating environments where women feel safe and protected.

ABILITY TO CHOOSE A SPOUSE

Forced and arranged marriages remain prevalent in numerous countries, depriving women of their right to choose their partners. Legal reforms and social interventions are needed to combat this violation of women’s autonomy and agency in marital decisions.

_{Repurposed article originally published in Spatula Deserts}