Dynamic Insights: Women’s Role in Modern Mongolia

In Mongolia’s history, women played pivotal roles in the nomadic lifestyle, despite harsh conditions. Over time, they gained more equality in education and work, shaping the nation’s modern identity. This essay explores the current issues and opportunities for Mongolian women.

Traditionally, Mongol women actively contributed to the livestock economy, granting some elite women more rights. While their domestic and herding responsibilities granted them power, the collapse of the Mongol Empire led to limited opportunities. Socialist governance, beginning in 1921, brought gains in education, health, and gender equality.

During the socialist era, women entered the workforce, especially in sectors like trade, medicine, and education. Government policies aimed at gender equality, but a “glass ceiling” impeded leadership positions. Maternity leave, welfare benefits, and education opportunities expanded. By 1990, over 40% of university graduates were women, and women’s political representation increased.

Post-socialism, economic changes impacted women. While political freedoms grew, economic failures disproportionately affected women, leading to unemployment and poverty. Gender wage gaps and household burdens persisted. Female-headed households increased due to male unemployment, causing high poverty rates.

Non-governmental organizations emerged to address these challenges, advocating against domestic abuse and improving women’s workforce conditions. Foreign agencies introduced initiatives such as micro-credit and addressing gender gaps.

Mongolia witnessed progress with women’s appointments in significant government positions and higher education enrollment. Despite obstacles, Mongolian women’s empowerment is gradually unfolding, offering hope for future leadership roles and addressing prevailing issues.

Re-reported from the article originally published in Asia Society by Morris Rossabi