Active Participation Of Women Research Articles

Women's informal group participation and intimate partner violence in Mwanza, Tanzania: A longitudinal study.

Women's groups have emerged as an essential platform for implementing violence prevention interventions across diverse settings because they can serve as a powerful catalyst for promoting gender equality, empowering women, and providing a safe space for them. Given the limited empirical evidence on the impact of women's informal group participation on male-perpetrated intimate partner violence, this longitudinal study examines how such participation influences women's experiences of physical, emotional, sexual, and economic IPV in Mwanza, Tanzania. Data from four waves of the MAISHA study, which followed up the control groups (n=1122) of the two MAISHA trials, were analysed. Women aged 18-70 who had been in a relationship within the last 12 months were included. Using mixed effects logistic regression models, we examined the association between women's active participation in religious, ethnic, microcredit, street and support groups and community meetings, with four types of IPV, adjusting for cohabitation status, age and enrolment in previous MAISHA trials. Participants' unique identification number was used as a random effect variable, and dummies for each survey round were used to account for time. The prevalence of religious, ethnic, microcredit, support and street groups, and community meeting participation at baseline were 41.8%, 17.5%, 41.1%, 20.1%, 42.9%, and 20.1%, respectively. Adjusted multivariable models showed that participants who engaged in community meetings reported lower odds of experiencing economic IPV (AOR=0.68, CI: 0.56-0.82) and higher odds of experiencing emotional IPV (AOR=1.21, CI: 1.00-1.46). Further, active participants of support groups reported lower odds of experiencing both economic (AOR=0.77, CI: 0.60-0.99) and sexual IPV (AOR=0.72, CI: 0.58-0.90). Participants in ethnic groups also reported lower odds of economic IPV (AOR=0.79, CI: 0.62-1.00). No predictor was associated with physical IPV. This study underscores the potential of informal community group participation to mitigate sexual and economic IPV among women in Mwanza, Tanzania, while also indicating a possible increase in the risk of emotional IPV. It emphasises the necessity for tailored, context-sensitive, and gender-transformative interventions to address power imbalances and restrictive norms effectively. Future research should delve into nuanced measures of group participation, including attendance, meeting frequency and duration, participants' influence within groups, the strength of social ties, and their implications for IPV experiences.

A Strategic Approach to Empowerment and Improving Educational Quality: Women's Leadership in Higher Education Institutions

The growing global recognition of leadership diversity and the acknowledgment of women's contributions to higher education necessitate the appointment of women to leadership positions within academic institutions, which is essential for promoting inclusivity and improving educational outcomes. This study employed a qualitative descriptive research methodology to examine the role of women in leadership positions within higher education institutions, with the objective of empowering women and improving the quality of education offered. The results demonstrate that women in leadership positions adeptly tackle institutional difficulties through inventive and adaptable solutions, enhancing academic quality significantly. The findings highlight the importance of robust policies and organizational backing in facilitating women's achievement of quality goals via leadership. The report suggests that universities, colleges, and departments should implement quotas to ensure women's presence and active participation on their boards, as well as training programs to support female leaders in improving academic achievement. These ideas seek to improve the quality of higher education by creating more sustainable and progressive classroom environments.

The Role of Christian Education in Families, Schools, and Churches: Realizing Gender Equality in NTT

Gender equality issues in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) face significant challenges due to a strong patriarchal culture. This research explores the role of Christian Religious Education in families, schools, and churches to support gender equality using a descriptive qualitative approach. Data were collected through unstructured interviews and indirect observations. The findings indicate that Christian Religious Education has substantial potential in shaping public views on gender equality by teaching values of mutual respect and shared responsibilities and encouraging women's active participation in church leadership. In conclusion, Christian Religious Education can contribute to creating a more equitable society.

Food Security Achievement through Women Empowerment: A Study of Informal Sector in Lahore

Background: Women empowerment (WE) in food security is one of the global issues faced by women in all the countries of the world. Achievement of zero-hunger goal of Sustainable Development Goals in 2030 (SDG) still seems to be unachievable because of this food insecurity. This research aims to study the achievement of food security by enhancing WE in the informal sector in Lahore, Pakistan. Moreover, the analysis goals are to determine the contribution of microcredit facilities and management skills in the enhancement of WE which improves food security. Method: This study was quantitative and descriptive. Using a primary survey questionnaire on cross-sectional data source by simple random sampling, 495 women borrowers in the informal sector of Lahore, Pakistan were investigated. Data analysis was done using SMART PLS3. Results: The results of the study revealed a positive relationship between WE and food security through the active participation of women in production decisions. The utilization of resources within the households is strengthened by familial rights, social support, and the removal of gender disparity. Conclusion: Women's capacity to contribute more to the daily household expenditure is increased by the higher income, and eventually, it increases their empowerment and food security.

Evaluation of the gender-neutral academic climate on campus for women faculty in STEM fields

The status of gender equity at universities is often evaluated via statistical data such as the proportions of women faculty members and students. However, given that women are still a minority in decision-making positions while gender parity has been achieved in most countries for students, simply increasing the proportion of women alone is not enough to ensure a truly gender-neutral (gender bias-free) academic climate on campuses, i.e., continuous efforts are required to create an environment that promotes the active participation of women. In particular, when the environment for cutting-edge advanced research in STEM fields is considered, despite the necessity for a gender perspective in science and technology innovation, the establishment of a gender-neutral academic climate has yet to be achieved. To solve this problem, a new indicator that accurately and quantitatively reflects the status of the gender-neutral academic climate on campuses is urgently needed.On the basis of this idea, this paper proposes a new method for quantitatively assessing the gender-neutral academic climate at each school/division/department of a university by analyzing scholarly output by gender. We created a bubble chart called the Academic Gender Equity Index (Academic_GEI), which consists of scholarly output and the proportion and absolute number of women faculty members, and used it as an indicator of human resource initiatives for gender equality within disciplines. We conducted a survey using this methodology in several countries (Japan/USA/EU). The Academic_GEI, along with other existing indicators, can be used to foster a gender-neutral academic climate for the next generation.

Parientes y emprendedoras. Formas de participación de mujeres en el mercado local ilegal de drogas en la ciudad de Rosario (Argentina)

This article proposes, through a predominantly ethnographic approach, the analysis of the forms of participation of women in activities linked to the local illegal drug market in the city of Rosario (Argentina). It is interesting to ask what the specific modalities of participation are like in this predominantly masculine universe. In other words, it is worth asking if this form of participation always occurs from a place of subordination or if women also occupy spaces of power, authority and/or leadership. To this end, an empirical universe composed of in-depth interviews and conversational situations held with female inmates in the women’s prison in the city of Rosario in Argentina, carried out during the years 2022 and 2023, is analyzed.

Determinants Of Public Participation On Women's Leadership In Nyatike Sub County, Migori County, Kenya

This study investigates the socio-economic determinants influencing women's participation in leadership in Nyatike Sub County, Migori County, Kenya. Drawing on feminist theory and participatory development theory, the research employs a mixed-methods approach, utilizing quantitative data from 160 respondents through structured questionnaires and qualitative insights from focus group discussions with 20 key informants. The researchers identify critical socio-economic factors such as; income levels, educational opportunities, and resource access that, significantly, impact women's leadership roles. Qualitative findings underscore the importance of education and economic stability, with participants emphasizing that higher education fosters confidence in assuming leadership positions. Additionally, support systems such as women groups are pivotal in empowering women to pursue leadership roles. However, barriers such as limited access to quality education, high poverty levels, economic dependence, gender-based violence (GBV), insufficient networking opportunities, and entrenched cultural norms, hinder women's advancement in leadership. Statistical analysis reveals that 48.8% of respondents identified income level as a crucial determinant of leadership participation, followed by 22.5% citing access to social networks. Descriptive statistics indicate strong engagement in socio-economic activities, with the highest participation in mentorship and leadership development programs (mean = 4.62). The study highlights the perceived importance of public participation in promoting women's leadership, with 74.4% of respondents acknowledging its significance. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions that promote socio-economic empowerment, challenge gender norms, and enhance women’s leadership representation in decision-making processes. Recommendations include community-wide gender sensitization programs, educational initiatives, and enhanced mentorship opportunities to facilitate women's active participation in leadership roles.

Livestock farming and women empowerment in rural Bangladesh: a mixed method approach

BackgroundIn Bangladesh, livestock farming is not only a major source of animal protein, but it also provides opportunities for women to contribute to household income. Therefore, this study was undertaken to identify the empowerment status of women livestock farmers, factors influencing women's participation in livestock farming and its impact on women's empowerment.MethodsThe study was conducted in the Mymensingh district (administrative unit) of Bangladesh, due to the active participation of women in livestock farming activities. A total of 200 women were surveyed between May to November 2018. Additionally, prior to the final survey, 02 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were performed to gain insight into the context of the study areas. Furthermore, a total of 12 semi-structured in-depth interviews were performed with 12 experienced women livestock farmers to collect data regarding the challenges they encounter in livestock farming. Women empowerment was measured using four domains: decision-making process, ownership of assets, social and political awareness, and freedom of mobility. Descriptive statistics, and Heckman's endogenous treatment effect model were applied to analyze the data.ResultsThe results revealed that majority (75%) of women who are involved in livestock farming had a medium level of empowerment. Women's decision to participate in livestock farming was positively influenced by farm size, knowledge, extension contact, and training. According to the average treatment effect on the treated (ATT) value, the empowerment status of women is 16 points higher among participants in livestock farming compared to non-participants. Furthermore, women in rural areas face several obstacles such as economic issues and inadequate marketing facilities, which may prevent them from engaging in livestock farming.ConclusionsEducating women through raising awareness and providing training is warranted because there is a notable disparity in the empowerment status of women who are and are not involved in livestock farming. This will help women improve their social awareness, decision-making capacity, and mobility. Livestock initiatives that encourage women's involvement could be generated by various rural-focused organizations.

Tumbuhkan Karakter Cinta Rasul

This study explores efforts to cultivate the character of love for the Prophet Muhammad SAW through a cultural preservation program among women in Dusun Ngandong, Kediri, with a focus on the Jam’iyah Dibaiyah activities. This initiative is driven by the importance of preserving Islamic traditions while strengthening religious identity in communities with minimal religious activities. The program involves revitalizing the tradition of reciting shalawat through Jam’iyah Dibaiyah, conducted regularly. The implementation began with mapping the community's condition, followed by consultations with local religious leaders, and organizing Jam’iyah Dibaiyah activities at various agreed locations. Evaluation of the program shows a significant increase in religious knowledge, active participation of women, and the reinforcement of love for the Prophet Muhammad SAW. Additional positive impacts include strengthened social bonds and solidarity among community members, improved religious understanding and skills, and changes in attitudes and behaviors aligning more closely with Islamic teachings. The program effectively created change agents within the community, making women role models in instilling Islamic values within their families and the surrounding community. This study highlights the importance of collaboration between the community and facilitators in sustaining religious empowerment efforts.

Experiences of breast milk donors in Sweden: balancing the motivation to do something good with overcoming the challenges it entails

BackgroundInfants requiring neonatal care often face initial breastfeeding challenges, leading them to receive expressed breast milk from their mother or donor milk. While emphasizing the mother’s own milk as the gold standard for infant nutrition, the utilization of donor milk stands as the preferred alternative over infant formula due to its numerous benefits. To facilitate the provision of donor milk to preterm and ill infants in neonatal units, the active participation of women willing to contribute their breast milk is crucial. This study aims to enhance the understanding of women’s experiences in the donation process, thereby contributing to efforts aiming at alleviating the shortage of donated breast milk by improve the care and support for breast milk donors.MethodsThis descriptive qualitative study took an inductive approach based on individual semi-structured interviews conducted during 2021 with 15 breast milk donors in Sweden. The data were analysed with thematic analysis.ResultsTwo themes were identified in the analysis: motivation to donate and challenges to overcome. Many of the women struggled to overcome the apparent challenges of not only starting the process of donating breast milk but also maintaining it. Despite the strain, they were motivated to donate their breast milk and seeking information by themselves to do something important for someone else. Only a few of the women talked about the financial benefits of donating breast milk; donating seemed to be mostly based on altruistic reasons.ConclusionsDespite the challenges posed by COVID-19 restrictions, time consumption, and the hard work of sterilizing pump utensils, women continued to donate their milk driven by altruism. To enhance donor support and increase milk donation, several improvements are suggested: providing comprehensive information and resources, simplifying the donation process, offering flexible scheduling, and recognizing donors’ contributions.

묘도와 묘총 : 송대 대혜 문하의 여성 선사들

Among the official disciples of the Southern Song Dynasty Zen master Dahui Zonggao(1089-1163) of the Chinese Linzi School were two bhikkhunis, Miaodao and Miaozong. Before Miaodao and Miaozong, the only other bhikkhuni in the history of Chinese Zen Buddhism was Moshan Liaoran in Ching-te ch'uan-teng lu. In the Southern Song period, the number of bhikkhunis and lay people recorded in Zen Buddhist texts gradually increased. Writers of Zen Buddhist texts sought to broaden the scope of Zen Buddhism by including royal women and elite men, often criticising the traditional focus on male ascetics. Miaodao and Miaozong were two of the earliest pioneers of this transformation of Zen Buddhism in the Southern Song Dynasty and were highly respected and representative bhikkhuni Zen masters. This paper examines these two bhikkhunis, Miaodao and Miaozong, through the literature on the history of Zen Buddhism in the Southern Song Dynasty and the writings of Dahui. In order to examine the evaluation of these bhikkhunis and their characteristics in relation to the context of the Southern Song period, the scope of this study is limited to the Zen Buddhist literature of the Southern Song period. The reason why Zen Buddhist texts record the biographies of many female Zen masters and actively include them in Zen Buddhist genealogies is that the examples of excellent female Zen masters can demonstrate the effectiveness of Zen Buddhist practice and increase the popularity of Zen Buddhism. Dahui often referred to the examples of Miaodao and Miaozong to teach and inspire his followers, especially women, to practice his Zen meditation. While presenting them as serious practitioners on the path to enlightenment, he also sought to present them as exemplary female leaders for other female students. This shows that he recognised the need for the active participation of women in the spread of his Zen Buddhist practice and in the development of Zen Buddhism. The Southern Song Dynasty Zen texts that record the Miaodao and Miaozong show an unprecedented high regard for female Zen masters. However, we can also see the limits of the male-centred authoritarianism that still persists in these texts. In the Southern Song Dynasty of China, elites were actively engaged in Zen Buddhism, the bhikkhuni order was highly prominent, and the traditional bhikkhu-centred hierarchy of the transmission records was being challenged. These changes were reflected in the high esteem in which female Zen masters were held.

Enhancing Women's Capacity in Funeral Management: A Community Service Study in Lima Puluh Kota Regency

This community service aims to enhance the capacity of women in managing funeral rites in Lima Puluh Kota Regency, West Sumatra. Through a series of training sessions conducted in six locations, this program is designed to empower women to be more confident and skilled in performing funeral management tasks according to Islamic law. The methods include lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on practice, enabling participants to understand and practically apply the necessary skills. The results of the community service show a significant improvement in the participants' technical skills and confidence, as well as a positive change in women's active participation in religious activities within the community. Additionally, this training successfully shifted societal perceptions of women's roles, recognizing them as capable and important in funeral management. In conclusion, this program not only contributes to women's empowerment but also to the development of a more inclusive and empowered community. The program has the potential to be replicated in other regions with similar cultural contexts, thereby broadening its impact on women's empowerment and community capacity building.

CHALLENGES & APPRAISALS: AN IN-DEPTH EXAMINATION OF THE WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS' PERFORMANCE

This qualitative study delves into multifaceted issues and challenges faced by elected women parliamentarians as they carry out their parliamentary duties and perceptions and appraisals of their performance by their male colleagues, assembly officials, and representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Thus, 10 semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore these dimensions. Study reveals a range of challenges faced by elected women parliamentarians, including gender-based biases, unequal opportunities, and limited access to resources. Male colleagues often cited issues related to gender stereotypes and traditional gender roles as barriers to women's effectiveness in parliament. In contrast, assembly officials and NGO representatives generally held more positive views about services as provided by elected women parliamentarians, accepting their dedication and commitment to addressing critical social issues. The significance of this research lies in its potential to inform policy changes, foster gender equality and encourage the active participation of women in political leadership. Recommendations include the need for increased support and resources for elected women parliamentarians and the promotion of gender-sensitive policies within legislative bodies to enhance the efficacy of parliamentary services.

Factors Shaping Women's Involvement in Community Development Projects: A Case of Mvomero Water Initiatives

This study investigated about factors influencing women's involvement in community development projects within the framework of development initiatives targeting women. Specifically, it focused on water initiatives in the Mvomero District. The study utilized the cross-sectional design. The findings from probit regression analysis reveal significant insights, highlighting the influential role of various factors in shaping women's decisions to participate. Education level emerges as a significant determinant emphasizing the pivotal role of educational attainment in fostering women's involvement in community development endeavors. Additionally, marital status and family size demonstrate notable impacts, illustrating the complex relationship between familial responsibilities and women's engagement in such projects. Furthermore, income level and access to credit emerged as crucial determinants, underscoring the importance of financial resources in facilitating women's active participation. Moreover, media, awareness and government policies played pivotal roles in influencing women's decisions to engage in community development initiatives. The study emphasizes the necessity of targeted policy interventions aimed at women’s participation through enhancement of income-generating opportunities and awareness to foster inclusive development and growth, thereby contributing to the advancement of gender equality in community development efforts.

Gender Equality in E-commerce Business

In the ever-evolving landscape of e-business, gender equality stands as a pivotal determinant of sustainable economic growth and social progress. This study delves into the multifaceted realm of gender equality within the sphere of electronic business, exploring its significance, challenges, and potential solutions. As women constitute a significant portion of the global workforce, their equitable participation in e-business not only fosters diversity but also harnesses untapped talent and creativity. The study also covers best practises and ideas that companies and legislators may implement to advance gender equality in e-business. The efficacy of programmes including skill development efforts, mentorship programmes, and encouraging work conditions in empowering women in the digital economy is investigated. Furthermore, policy interventions concerning education, financing accessibility, and legislative changes are examined as crucial elements of an all-encompassing strategy for achieving gender equality in e-business. The paper draws attention to the ongoing obstacles that women in e-business confront, which range from severely embedded cultural prejudices to restricted access to opportunities and resources. The paper illuminates the obstacles impeding women's active participation in e-commerce, entrepreneurship, and leadership positions through a review of relevant research and case studies. It also highlights the financial benefits of promoting gender equality in e-business by examining the favourable relationships between gender diversity and improved organisational performance, creativity, and decision-making processes. The paper concludes by arguing for a paradigm change in the e-business sector, where gender equality is now seen as an economic need rather than just a social objective. In the digital age, organisations may drive innovation, economic success, and social change by using the full potential of their workforce via the demolition of barriers, acceptance of diversity, and cultivation of inclusive cultures.

Unveiling Empowerment: Navigating Historical Roles and Contemporary Challenges for Muslim Women Leaders

Based on the insights gathered from the literature review, this historical study embarks on a multifaceted exploration with several pivotal objectives. At its core, it seeks to illuminate the intricate relationship between Islamic teachings, the historical roles of Muslim women in leadership, and their contemporary challenges within the political landscape of Pakistan. Through a thorough examination of these aspects, the research aims to provide valuable insights and actionable recommendations that can shape policy formulation, procedural refinement, and organizational culture. The primary goal is to promote gender diversity and empower Muslim women in leadership roles, particularly in Pakistan. A central objective of this study is to deeply explore Islamic teachings and principles and their implications for women's active participation and contributions to society, especially in leadership positions. By meticulously analyzing relevant literature and historical examples from Islamic history, the research intends to uncover the theological and cultural foundations that historically influenced the status of Muslim women in leadership. Moreover, it seeks to evaluate how these teachings have empowered Muslim women in leadership roles, fostering a nuanced understanding of the interplay between religion and women's leadership.

Financial Socialisation and Promotion of Financial Inclusion, among Women Self-Help Group Members: An analysis

India, a country of diversities has travelled a long way in the process of achieving inclusive growth through financial inclusion. The expedition has started from bank nationalisation in the year 1969 to flagship programs like SHG bank Linkage and PMDJY. Historically, women in India have faced various socio-economic challenges, including limited access to financial services and opportunities. To address these challenges and promote the financial inclusion of women, several initiatives and measures have been taken at the government, regulatory, and institutional levels. The PMJDY accounts have shown a remarkable growth in account openings. Around 50.09 Crore Jan Dhan accounts opened as of Aug 2023 where average deposits rise from Rs.1065 crore in 2015 to Rs.4087 Crore in 2023,nearly 3 times over Aug 2015. Around 56% of such accounts are owned by woman, whereas 67% of the accounts are owned by women in rural and semi urban areas (PIB 2023)[i]. But what is more discouraging is that India has the highest in inactive accounts which is 35% globally. In developing economies, women account owners are, on average, 5 percentage points more likely than men are inactive, in India the deviation is highest that is 12 %.Out of the women owned accounts, more than 32% are inactive. The usage of accounts also indicates a different saga as most of them is used for withdrawals of salary or wages, emergencies, or availing Govt. Benefits which leads to a lowering of financial inclusion among the women (Global Findex database 2021)[ii].
 
 It's important to note that despite many advancements achieved by the country with respect to the financial inclusion of women through initiations like PMJDY, introduction of a range of women-centric financial products, such as savings accounts, fixed deposits, and insurance policies, often with special features and incentives, SHGs movements, development of digital financial ecosystem for women in rural areas to access financial services through mobile banking and digital wallets, undertaking financial literacy programs and campaigns aimed at women for improving their financial knowledge and decision-making capabilities, legal reforms related to property rights and inheritance rights, support for Women Entrepreneurs including access to credit, training, and mentorship, and by allocating funds specifically for women's welfare and empowerment through gender budgeting, the challenges still prevailing. The gender gap in financial inclusion still exist, with women in rural and marginalized communities facing more significant barriers. Social and cultural factors, limited financial literacy, and the persistence of gender-based violence in some regions were among the ongoing challenges (Fletschner & Kenney, 2011[iii]). The need for ongoing education and awareness programs, addressing gender biases, and expanding access to financial services in remote areas etc. remain the priorities of the policy makers. Achieving full financial inclusion for women in India requires a multi-faceted approach involving government policies, financial institutions, civil society organizations, and the active participation of women themselves. It is essential for both economic development and gender equality (Duflo, 2012[iv]; Bucciol et.al, 2022[v]).

Climate Change and Women Health Vulnerabilities: Towards Mitigation and Response

Climate change affects all genders in myriad ways and causes catastrophic health hazards. While no one is safe from this unfolding risks, women are already disadvantaged and become most affected by climate change. Poor air quality, contaminated water, food insecurity, spread of vector borne diseases, disruption of sanitation and rising temperature etc. have overwhelming negative health impacts on women, especially on the reproductive health. Furthermore, climate policies in India lack gender sensitivity because of low awareness making women health more vulnerable. With this backdrop, the current paper has identified key areas of vulnerability among females due to their biology and the existing socio-cultural factors. In addition to the existing issues women are less likely to have accessibility of the resources to enjoy their fundamental health rights. There fore the current paper discuses better strategies for mitigation and response to climate change with the active participation of women, families and the whole community. After looking at various findings the paper concludes the need of the gender sensitive approach in the process of mitigation and response.

Endometriosis, a participatory study in the Serchio Valley (Tuscany Region, Central Italy): state of the art and perspectives

endometriosis is a chronic condition with a significant impact on women's health, featured by endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. A limited number of studies have been conducted in the general population, and the true prevalence of endometriosis is unknown for many areas of the country. to better estimate the prevalence of endometriosis in three Italian regions (Friuli Venezia Giulia, Tuscany, Apulia) and to assess the relationship between endometriosis and environmental factors in three participating areas (Trieste, Barga, and Taranto), with a focus on Tuscany Region. implementing a specific epidemiological registry for endometriosis, aimed at estimating the incidence and prevalence data. The registry collected information from hospital discharge records and anatomopathological reports of women residing in the three considered regions, aged 15 years or older. Additionally, the analysis includes the assessment of the spatial distribution of endometriosis at both regional and municipal levels in the three study areas. Further research investigations in these areas involve a multilevel screening of a sample of women of childbearing age. Women who test positive in the initial screening (through a self-administered questionnaire) will have the opportunity to undergo a second level of screening, consisting of a gynecological examination, transvaginal ultrasound, a swab for vaginal microbiome analysis, and the collection of blood and urine samples to assess the presence of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) or heavy metals. The adopted scientific approach is based on post-normal science (PNS) concerning the extended peer community. women aged 15 years or older residing in the three regions. estimating the incidence and prevalence of endometriosis based on data collected from the epidemiological registry. The analysis extends to assessing the spatial distribution of endometriosis at municipal levels in the three areas of interest. the preliminary results of the study allowed for the estimation of the spatial distribution of endometriosis incidence in Tuscany. In particular, it was found that there is variability within the region, with some coastal and North-Western areas showing values 20% higher than the regional average. Cities such as Pisa, Lucca, Livorno, Grosseto, Orbetello, and the Serchio Valley with Barga had a probability of excess risk of more than 90% compared to the regional average. the study is ongoing and requires the active participation of women living in the region to ensure the completeness and accuracy of the collected data. This research effort represents an important contribution to understanding endometriosis in Tuscany and its possible environmental causes.

Cyber Opportunities: Fostering Women's Empowerment through E-Commerce in Afghanistan

This research undertakes a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between women's empowerment and E-commerce, with a specific focus on the unique challenges and opportunities presented in Afghanistan's post-conflict landscape. Globally, E-commerce has emerged as a transformative force, breaking down traditional barriers and providing avenues for women's active participation in economic activities. However, Afghanistan's socio-cultural context introduces nuanced challenges, including cultural norms, societal expectations, and limited access to technology. Employing a mixed-methods research design, this study gathers insights from 100 Afghan women engaged in E-commerce activities. The findings reveal multifaceted challenges, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to bridge the digital divide and address cultural barriers. Despite obstacles, the study underscores the resilience of women entrepreneurs in navigating the digital landscape. Education and digital literacy emerge as pivotal factors shaping women's participation, highlighting the necessity for tailored initiatives. The research culminates in key recommendations, advocating for clear national policies, enhanced cybersecurity measures, and digital literacy programs. Support for women entrepreneurship and collaboration with international partners are emphasized to create an inclusive and supportive environment for women in the digital economy. This research serves as a foundational resource for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners, offering actionable insights to empower Afghan women in E-commerce. By implementing the recommended strategies, Afghanistan can pave the way for sustainable development, economic growth, and the meaningful inclusion of women in the digital landscape.