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Gender and Development
Who would have thought, after all these years, that the struggle for gender equality would still be one of the greatest issues of our time? In many countries, the fight continues for equal representation in parliament, or anti-discrimination and harassment laws. But equality between the sexes is not just about being fair and providing everybody with the same opportunities. In developing countries, gender inequality claims lives, and can be the reason a community struggles instead of prospering. In too many ways, holding back women is holding back development. Illiteracy in women reduces their chances of finding employment outside their own home, as well as their ability to take part in community initiatives. Lack of knowledge on health issues contributes to children dying from preventable diseases. Violence, including sexual violence and exploitation, against women is still tolerated, even when laws exist to protect them. Discrimination reduces the power of women to make decisions about community issues and needs, even though they are usually more familiar with these issues than men. Gender equality benefits men and women
In many cases men are unaware of the disadvantages they impose on their families and communities by discriminating against girls and women. Gender and Development in Asia : The Facts 70% of the world's poor are female (ILO) While women do two thirds of the world's work, only one third of Asia's females are in the paid workforce (ILO) Just under 50% of women in South Asia are illiterate (World Bank) The child mortality rate for boys in South Asia is 24.9 per 1000 births. For girls it's 36.7 (World Bank) |
Women who have fairer opportunities can earn more, contribute more to family and social harmony, and help with effective solutions to community problems. Women must be allowed to achieve their potential, for their own good and for that of their community. Once they see that it benefits everyone, men often become strong advocates on gender issues too. World Vision works with issues of gender as part of every project it delivers, knowing that the strengths and skills of both men and women are required for long-lasting success. |
