Promote Gender Equality Research Articles

Understanding unmet family planning needs and unplanned pregnancies in Malaysian women

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of unmet family planning needs among Malaysian women and their correlation with unplanned pregnancies. Leveraging a rigorous qualitative library research approach, this investigation delves into peer-reviewed literature, government reports, and international publications to identify key socio-cultural, economic, health and educational factors hindering women’s reproductive health choices. Despite Malaysia’s progress in reproductive health, significant disparities persist, particularly among marginalised women in rural and low-income communities. Limited contraceptive knowledge, cultural stigmas, and insufficient healthcare access emerge as critical barriers. By meticulously examining data sources such as the Technical Report of the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2022, this study highlights the urgent need for policy reforms and targeted interventions to enhance reproductive health education and expand access to diverse contraceptive options. This research directly aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 and 5, aiming to improve reproductive health outcomes and promote gender equality. By empowering women to make informed reproductive choices, this study contributes to a more equitable and sustainable future for Malaysia. The findings provide actionable recommendations for policymakers and healthcare providers to address systemic gaps and reduce unplanned pregnancies, ultimately fostering equitable access to family planning services for all Malaysian women.

The effect of energy poverty on gender inequality in Southern Asian countries

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between gender inequality and energy poverty in Southeast Asian countries from 2000 to 2020. The study aims to assess the long-term impact of gender inequality on energy poverty by considering factors such as per capita gross domestic production (GDP), population growth and gross capital formation. By analyzing these variables, the research seeks to shed light on the disproportionate burden women face in energy-poor regions and to provide insights into how addressing energy poverty can promote gender equality and sustainable development in the region. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a dynamic generalized method of moments (GMM) model to analyze the long-term cointegration between gender inequality and energy poverty in Southeast Asian countries. The data, sourced from World Data Indicators, spans from 2000 to 2020, including variables such as GDP, population growth and gross capital formation. Proxy measures for energy poverty and gender inequality were developed using access to electricity, clean cooking technologies and female employment statistics. Stationarity tests and cointegration analyses were conducted to ensure the validity of the results, confirming the relationships among the variables for the region studied. Findings The study finds a significant positive relationship between gender inequality and energy poverty in Southeast Asian countries. Higher levels of gender inequality are associated with increased energy poverty, with women disproportionately affected due to reliance on traditional cooking methods. The dynamic GMM model confirms this long-term cointegration, showing that economic growth initially increases energy poverty but reduces it as nations invest in sustainable energy. Population growth has a negative association with energy poverty, suggesting that development and infrastructure improvements mitigate its effects. These findings highlight the need for gender-sensitive energy policies in the region. Originality/value This study offers a novel contribution by empirically examining the long-term relationship between gender inequality and energy poverty in Southeast Asian countries, an underexplored area in existing literature. Using a dynamic GMM approach, it highlights the disproportionate burden women face due to energy poverty, particularly through traditional cooking methods. The research provides valuable insights into how addressing energy poverty can promote gender equality, offering practical policy recommendations for sustainable development. Its findings serve as a foundation for policymakers to craft gender-sensitive energy interventions that enhance both social equity and economic growth in developing regions.

Empowerment and Sustainability: Investigating Barriers to Women’s Transition from Higher Education to Empowerment in Brazil

Gender equality continues to be a global issue, with significant disparities in attention and action between developed and developing nations. Women, in particular, face unique challenges when transitioning from higher education (HE) to empowerment compared to their male counterparts. In many developing countries, barriers to accessing formal education are prevalent, while, in others, despite access to education, women struggle to leverage their learning for societal advancement. This paper adopts the development theory approach by exploring the role of gender equality in fostering sustainable development, emphasizing how women’s empowerment is integral to overall societal progress. This study focuses on Brazil, where, despite high levels of female educational attainment, women still encounter substantial obstacles in transforming their education into meaningful societal empowerment. These challenges include restricted freedom and mobility, deeply ingrained gender norms, violence and harassment, cultural and societal expectations, economic limitations, and family obligations. Survey data were collated from 192 students, alumni, and staff at three academic higher education (HE) institutions in Brazil, utilizing a range of descriptive and inferential statistical analyses to uncover the most significant barriers. This study concludes with policy recommendations aimed at various stakeholders, including government bodies, employers, and other organizations, to support a smoother transition for women from higher education to empowerment. These recommendations include improving workplace policies, enhancing legal protections, and promoting gender equality in leadership roles, all of which are essential to narrowing the gender gap in Brazil.

Gender Inequality and Economic Growth in Nigeria: A Granger-Causality Analysis (2009–2023)

This study examined the causality relationship between gender inequality and economic growth in Nigeria, covering the period 2009–2023. The study was anchored on two inequality theories, namely functionalist theory and conflict theory. The ex-post facto was used as the research design for the study. Data for the study were extracted from the World Development Index of the World Bank and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletin (2023). The method of data analysis adopted in the study was the Granger-Causality Analysis with the Unit-Root employed to estimate the stationarity status of the variables. The results of the study reveal that there is a causality relationship existing between gender inequality and economic growth in Nigeria, covering the period 2009 to 2023. However, the result reveals that the relationship is bi-directional, flowing from gender inequality to economic. The F-statistics and corresponding probability values show that gender inequality granger causes economic growth. The GIE yielded a p-value of 0.0037 < 0.05, GIEPP yielded a p-value of 0.0137 < 0.05, GHIC yielded 0.0108 < 0.05, and GIED yielded 0.0341 < 0.05. Comprehensive policy interventions that promote gender equality in education, employment, and political representation are necessary to ensure that Nigeria's economic growth is inclusive and resilient.

For Justice! The Double Burden of Women in Indonesia from the Perspective of The Compilation of Islamic Law

This study investigates the phenomenon of the double burden faced by women in Indonesia through the lens of the Compilation of Islamic Law (Kompilasi Hukum Islam, KHI). The double burden refers to the dual roles that women fulfill, balancing responsibilities within the household and in the public workforce. Utilizing a qualitative approach and document analysis, this research explores how the KHI addresses women’s roles and responsibilities in both spheres. Real-life cases of Indonesian women are examined to assess how interpretations of the KHI impact their experiences. Findings indicate that while the KHI acknowledges women’s participation in multiple facets of life, its implementation is often constrained by patriarchal interpretations that lack gender sensitivity. This has resulted in women bearing disproportionate responsibilities at home and work. The study underscores the need for a more progressive reinterpretation of the KHI to reduce the double burden on women, promoting gender equality and enhancing women’s welfare in Indonesia. These insights are intended to inform strategies for advancing gender equity within the framework of the KHI, contributing to broader social and legal reforms.

Addressing Gender Stereotyping in the Emergent World of Block-Chain and Cryptocurrency Administration

The study seeks to address the gender gap in the crypto world by exploring strategies for promoting financial literacy, creating opportunities for women in the industry and addressing the “bro culture”. Several empirical evidence has been done by researchers which indicates that men are more interested in crypto currencies than women. This work will show how crypto currency-based approaches to development interact with gender, which are part of neoliberal beliefs about entrepreneurialism, financial inclusion, and gender roles. Block-chain technology has the potential to address gender inequality. The research methodology borders around the use of descriptive methods of analysis and content analysis. The work attempts to look into the rise of decentralized finance, specifically block chain-based applications and calls for a more feminine-friendly analysis. Findings by Gemini’s State of US Crypto report showed that women make up only 26% of the investors in the space. Forex analyzed the top 50 crypto company founders to find only 6% of these have female CEOs. The World Bank explores how block chain can be leveraged to advance gender equality, particularly in the context of humanitarian response and financial services. As such, the gender gap in the cryptocurrency world is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address. The study recommended that blockchain technology holds promise for promoting gender equality

Audience Perception of Female News Anchors: A Study of Africa Independent Television (AIT)

This study examined the perception of mass communication students on female news anchors in Africa Independent Television (AIT). The purpose of the study is to determine viewers perception on the physical characteristics of female news anchors on Africa Independent Television (AIT); whether viewers' attention is diverted from the news by the appearance of these anchors; and whether viewers' attention is affected by their physical appearance. . The study was guided by Social Perception Theory. Using survey method quantitative approach was used. The population of this study made of 5032 students in Federal Polytechnic Bauchi within period of the study (Academic Unit, 2024). 346 sample size was used. In gathering the data, questionnaire was used. Data of the study was analyzed using descriptive analysis. The sstudy indicated that, the appearance is generally viewed positively; certain aspects of attire may inadvertently cause distraction. The study conclude that, the perception of Mass Communication students regarding female television news anchors on Africa Independent Television (AIT) is generally positive, emphasizing professionalism, competence, and credibility. It is recommended that, AIT should continue to promote gender equality by ensuring equal representation of male and female anchors across all news programs.

Assessing the Feasibility of the Uniform Civil Code in a Diverse and Secular India

India is a nation celebrated for its rich religious diversity and commitment to secularism. Personal laws for religions like Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity currently govern civil matters such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance. However, Article 44 of the Indian Constitution advocates for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) to establish a uniform legal framework, potentially advancing gender equality and promoting national integration. This research paper explores the feasibility of implementing a UCC in India by examining the benefits of a UCC, including its impact on reducing gender disparities, while addressing concerns over cultural autonomy and religious freedom. The latter half of the paper also provides policy recommendations for implementing the UCC in India.

The Transformative Power of Generative Artificial Intelligence for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of Quality Education

This study explored the transformative potential of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal on Quality Education (SDG4), emphasizing its interconnectedness with the other SDGs. A proprietary algorithm and cocitation network analysis were used to identify and analyze the network of SDG features in GAI research publications (n = 1501). By examining GAI’s implications for ten SDG4 targets, the findings advocate for a collaborative, ethical approach to integrating GAI, emphasizing policy and practice developments that ensure that technological advancements align with the overarching goals of SDG4. The results highlight the multifaceted impact of GAI on the SDGs. First, this paper outlines a framework that leverages GAI to enhance educational equity, quality, and lifelong learning opportunities. By highlighting the synergy between GAI and the SDGs, such as reducing inequalities (SDG10) and promoting gender equality (SDG5), this study underscores the need for an integrated approach to utilizing GAI. Moreover, it advocates for personalized learning, equitable technology access, adherence to ethical AI principles, and fostering global citizenship, proposing a strategic alignment of GAI applications with the broader SDG agenda. Next, the results highlight that GAI introduces significant challenges, including ethical concerns, data privacy, and the risk of exacerbating the digital divide. Overall, our findings underscore the critical role of policy reforms and innovative practices in navigating the challenges and harnessing the opportunities presented by GAI in education, thereby contributing to a comprehensive discourse on technology’s role in advancing global education and sustainable development.

Gender-sensitive and intersectionality-informed health indicators for health reporting: a scoping review protocol

IntroductionGender is a well-established social determinant of health and health (in)equality. Gender-sensitive health indicators for health monitoring and health reporting can support gender mainstreaming in relevant policy areas and inform...

A Comparison of the Extensibility of Marriage in Ancient Greek and Chinese Taoist Traditions

Abstract: In ancient societies, people experienced different wedding rituals under Chinese Taoist culture and in ancient Greece. Women of various social backgrounds faced distinctive treatment. Comparing two kinds of cultural settings, this paper will analyze how these distinct married conventions manifest the past broader societal perspectives and morality towards power dynamics, involving rules, status, and rituals for couples. In addition, this research purposely focuses on their societal structures and gender roles, promoting gender equality and diminishing patriarchal for future development. In ancient Greek society, particularly in Athens and Sparta, this paper reveals that marriage was an important process that reflected family ties and societal expectations, leading to limited rights for women. In contrast, Chinese Taoism approached marriage more practically, this culture emphasized the balance of yin and yang and announced a more egalitarian perspective with some limitations. Utilizing a comparative analysis method, the study gathers insights into the marriage customs of both civilizations. This investigation illuminates the evolution of marital norms and encourages contemporary discussions about relationships and gender roles.

Family Influence and Social Conditioning: Exploring Chinese High School Students' Perspectives on Gender Differences

This study examines how family structure and social conditions shape Chinese high school students' perceptions of gender roles and expectations for future gender equality. Conducted through qualitative interviews at a Beijing international school, the research finds that students from egalitarian families tend to have less traditional gender role perceptions, while those from traditional families often reinforce stereotypes. External influences, including peers, societal norms, and media, also significantly impact these views. Despite a general desire for gender equality, many students remain concerned about persistent societal biases. The findings underscore the need for policies that promote gender equality from both family and societal perspectives.

Cross-Cultural Women's Dialectics to Promote Gender Equality Within SDGs and Reducing Potential Conflict in Manado

Objective: The aim of this research is to verify the findings obtained from the previous research, as well as to explore the role of women in promoting gender equality and within the process of preventing conflict, especially in Indonesia's patriarchal culture. Theoretical Framework: the main concept using in this research is the findings of the previous year's research revealed that in general there were three factors that led to latent conflict, religious factors, political factors and economic factors. This research also uses dialectic communication theory. Method: The methodology used in this research is descriptive qualitative with a case study research approach. Research data was obtained through focus group discussions with community leaders to obtain solid results. Results and Discussion: The research results show that experts or sources confirm that the three conflict factors are latent, namely: religion, politics and economics. Then the role of women is still very limited, because women do not have much space to move in public spaces, although this does not reduce the role of women in efforts to prevent conflict and maintain harmony in society. Research Implications: The findings from the research can be used as a reference in creating policy texts regarding how to maintain peace by prioritizing the role of women in society in Indonesia. Originality/Value: This research contributes to the literature by explaining latent factors that can become potential conflicts and how to prevent them through a cross-cultural dialectical process carried out by women.

Examining the Utilisation of Pascal’s Triangle for Community Development and Allocation of Resources in Eastern Uganda

Challenges ranging from resource scarcity to social deprivation and environmental concerns confront the East Region of Uganda. Let’s focus on Pascal’s Triangle as a conceptual model to deal with the problems of unjust resource distribution among communities. This model, which is a triangular arrangement of numbers, affords an opportunity to gain useful insights into community interactions and the process of resource distribution. Understanding Pascal’s triangle’s mathematical nature is a key driving force behind realistic and feasible resource allocation methods and community development approaches. Equal resource distribution methods, clear resource allocation mechanisms, community involvement, and multi-level cooperation are essential for promoting fairness and resilience. East Ugandan communities celebrate diversity as a resource for social cohesion, creativity, and resilience. Collaboration and unity are keys to getting over the difficulties and achieving great heights. It creates resilience and sustainability through community-based organisations, cooperative ventures, and participatory decision-making processes. When involved in solving complex problems, education serves as a key tool for empowering individuals and communities. Participatory decision-making creates a degree of transparency and representativeness in resource allocation. Merging community building and resource deployment with SDGs ensures sustainability and durability. Policies and programmes that address gender issues and encourage community participation are the keys to improving inclusivity. This review article examines Community Building and Resource Allocation: Learning from the Pascal Triangle in Eastern Uganda: Insights. We used data from the last decade (2014–2024) available from many reliable data sources. The findings advocate for community participation in decision-making, the implementation of policies that promote gender equality and social inclusion, collaboration among stakeholders, and the prioritization of education and capacity building, in addition to the integration of Sustainable Development Goals into community development plans and the strengthening of local governance institutions for equitable resource distribution. To solve complicated issues in the east of Uganda, it’s imperative to put more emphasis on equal resource allocation, community mobilisation, and social integration. Apply the insights from Pascal’s Triangle to foster communities that are adaptable, inclusive, and stable. Keywords: Community Building, Resource Allocation, Pascal’s Triangle, East Uganda, Resilience, Sustainable Development Goals

Empowering Women across Borders: A Study on Equality and Inclusion

Abstract: This paper explores the multifaceted dimensions of women's empowerment and gender equality across various cultural and socio-economic contexts through The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). It was adopted by the United Nations in 1979, and serves as a foundational international treaty aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering women worldwide. This paper explores the impact of CEDAW in transforming legal frameworks, fostering social change, and enhancing women's rights. By obligating signatory nations to eliminate discrimination against women in all forms, CEDAW provides a comprehensive framework for addressing issues such as violence against women, economic inequality, and political participation. It is instrumental in reshaping societal norms and legal frameworks, driving systemic change that empowers women and promotes their fundamental rights on a global scale. The paper will discuss in detail the barriers that women face, including legal, economic, and social challenges, and highlights successful strategies implemented in different countries to promote gender equity at International Level.

Aspiring and Deprecating Female Influencers: Communicative Capitalism and the Positioning of Women Entrepreneurs

Given the relative ease of joining an e-commerce market via social media platforms, expectations have risen about the role of communication technology and social networks in advancing gender equality in economic participation. South Korean women influencers, in particular, are selling various items using their popularity on social networks. They represent themselves as successful, passionate, gorgeous businesswomen with glamorous lifestyles. These individual influencers exemplify neoliberal ideals, branding and marketing themselves as independent and autonomous creators able to fashion their own destinies in the endless competition of the market. Recently however, heated deinfluencing trends against them have grown in strength and intensity, deprecating these women as nonprofessional, mass-deceptive online vendors. It has become common to describe them with the derogatory term “palyi people.” Against this backdrop, the current study questions the ability of digitalized online technology to empower women coming along with the ideas of neoliberalism and postfeminism. Using the concept of communicative capitalism, this study will analyze the images and texts created and circulated within the social media sphere by six popular female influencers and their followers. Through this data, this study aims to grasp how the free communicative activities of female influencers and their followers on social media negatively position women entrepreneurs in the techno-cultural era.

Gender Inequality in STEM Education in Pakistan: A Case Study of Female Students

Emphasis on STEM education has gained the attention of activists to promote gender equality in the education field in the last few years. The objectives of the present research paper are: Why is there a need to address gender inequalities in STEM education in Pakistan? The second objective of the research is to highlight the obstacles that restrict women’s access to STEM education in Pakistan. This research is qualitative in nature and based on the interviews of students enrolled in the faculty of humanities at the BS level in AIOU. Research gives directions to policymakers on how to increase women’s enrollment in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Promoting Well-Being from a Gender Perspective: A Systematic Review of Interventions Using Digital Tools and Serious Games

Gender inequalities continue to pose a significant issue across various aspects of life, adversely impacting the well-being of both females and males. These disparities often stem from the ingrained gender stereotypes passed down to young individuals through parental guidance, educational systems, and media portrayal. For this reason, within the psycho-pedagogical field, various intervention models have been developed in recent years, leveraging digital tools to combat stereotypes and enhance well-being among adolescents. The aim of this systematic review is, therefore, to identify studies employing digital tools, particularly serious games, to promote well-being from a gender perspective. The review was conducted using the PRISMA guidelines and collected articles from four databases: Scopus, the Web of Science, PubMed, and PsycInfo. The screening process culminated in the selection of 15 articles. The findings reveal a proliferation of platforms, applications, and programs aimed at promoting well-being by addressing emotional, cognitive (or mental), physical, and sexual health dimensions. Some contributions emphasize nurturing positive attributes within individuals or fostering empowerment as a precursor to well-being. Additionally, certain articles delve into the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the well-being of young men and women; in particular, the authors investigated the effect of using an app to improve well-being before and after the pandemic. This systematic review aims to expand the knowledge base on technology-based interventions for social change. It endeavors to empower educators and advance the creation of innovative, evidence-based digital tools that can enhance positive mental health, promote gender equality education, and foster the well-being of young people.

Language and Gender: Exploring Structures and Bias in Linguistic Norms

This study investigates the intricate relationship between language and gender norms, exploring how linguistic structures reflect and reinforce societal gender expectations. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative analysis of linguistic corpora with qualitative insights from interviews and discourse analysis. Key findings reveal a growing acceptance of gender-neutral pronouns in English, particularly among younger generations, while entrenched gender biases persist in languages with grammatical gender systems, such as French and Spanish. The study also highlights how lexical choices often associate leadership and strength with male subjects, reinforcing traditional gender roles. Practical recommendations for promoting gender equality through language include advocating for gender-neutral language policies, increasing public awareness, and encouraging media to challenge gender stereotypes. The research concludes by suggesting further avenues for investigation, including cross-linguistic studies, historical analyses, and exploring the impact of language reforms on societal attitudes.

Breaking barriers in the career development of women in academic psychiatry.

Academic psychiatry is essential for advancing mental health understanding and treatments. However, women encounter more obstacles hindering their progress in academia than men. This Editorial aims to highlight these obstacles and propose strategies to address them, advocating for a more supportive environment for women psychiatrists' ongoing growth and development. The importance of supportive environments, fair access to opportunities and structural changes, including initiatives for mentorship, funding and flexible work arrangements, are crucial. Collaboration among governments, institutions and organisations is needed to enhance research infrastructure and promote gender equality. Encouraging and recognising women's contributions in research fosters inclusivity and innovation. Prioritising these efforts is vital for the existence, well-being and success of women in academic psychiatry.