Gendered Research Articles

Somewhere over the Rainbow

Abstract This research pertains to the rights of intersex children in the Global South. Kenya presents an interesting comparison as there has been litigation concerning intersex children. The 2014 case of Baby ‘A’ presents a wealth of knowledge. The jurisprudence developed in this regard touches on some of the provisions in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child i.e. the four important general principles identified therein. These general principles are crucial in protecting the rights of vulnerable children and issues of gender, gender identity and sex – in particular, intersex children. In Uganda, the situation is quite dire. There are interesting questions regarding the right to health care, bodily autonomy, possible over-reach of medical professionals and legislative over-reach amongst many other issues. A comparison is made with India. In 2019 the state of Tamil Nadu, a court banned such unnecessary gender-normalising surgeries. While not an African country, it provides a comparative nuance in understanding sogiesc issues in the Global South.

The Rhetorical Techniques Employed by Japanese Activists

This study analyzes the English language rhetorical techniques employed in public speeches by four current Japanese activists. While not as deeply embedded in Japanese culture as in some Western cultures, there has been a recent increase in activism in Japan. Frequently, such activists deliver speeches in English focusing on climate change issues, gender issues, and political issues. Correspondingly, there has been a renewed interest in exploring whether these Japanese activists employ established English language rhetorical techniques to enhance the persuasiveness of their speeches. Four speeches (two delivered by experienced speakers and two by inexperienced speakers) were analyzed in this study using Rowland’s (2019) categories of language strategies. The core research question in this study is: What rhetorical techniques are utilized by Japanese activists to enhance their English language speeches? Findings indicate that even though the Japanese activists spoke in their second language (English), they employed many of the traditional rhetorical techniques commonly used in English speeches. Furthermore, subtle differences in the frequency and complexity of techniques used distinguished one of the experienced speakers from the other speakers. The educational implication drawn from these findings is that English language rhetorical techniques can be more widely taught in L2 classes.

New FTAS as catalysts for gender equality: The case of Vietnam’s compliance with ILO standards on gender discrimination

This research delves into the relationship between new-generation Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and the ILO Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention 1958 (C111), illustrating how the international trade instruments facilitate the integration and implementation of gender-based discrimination standards. As Vietnam becomes increasingly involved with various new FTAs, this study critically evaluates the extent to which such standards are effectively engaged and enforced within the national labour context, which is observed through the process of internalizing C111 into domestic law. Using a legal comparative and analytical approach, the research examines the opportunities and challenges of aligning Vietnamese domestic laws with international gender discrimination labour standards. The findings underscore that employing a male-centric strategy within the labour legal framework emerges as a potential tool for promoting gender equality in employment and aligning Vietnam’s commitments to international gender discrimination standards. The significance of this study lies not only in its approach to addressing persistent inequalities within the labour context but also in its innovative strategy for promoting gender equality sustainably, based on the State’s commitments to international trade. This dual focus enhances the contribution of the research, providing a comprehensive and progressive framework for understanding and tackling gender issues in the labour market.

Gender in Social Media: A Comparative Study of Abd. Somad and Adi Hidayat’s Interpretation on Gender Equality

This research aims to explore and compare the views of two popular preachers in Indonesia, Ustaz Abdul Somad and Ustaz Adi Hidayat, regarding the concept of gender equality, conveyed via social media. In the digital era, social media has become an important platform for religious figures to convey their views and educate the public. The main focus of this research is to identify differences in the interpretations of each ustaz regarding gender issues, especially those involving women’s rights in the Islamic context. Data was collected through content analysis of videos and uploads spread on platforms such as YouTube and Instagram, which were studied using a descriptive-qualitative approach. The findings show that although both have the same foundation in Islamic teachings, there are variations in how they interpret the role of women and gender equality. Ustaz Abdul Somad tends to use a conservative approach that emphasizes traditional gender roles according to sharia norms. In contrast, Ustaz Adi Hidayat offers a more contextual approach, highlighting the importance of women’s empowerment within the limits set by Islam. These two interpretations reflect the diversity of thought in understanding gender equality among Indonesian ulama. It is hoped that this research can enrich the literature regarding the interpretation of gender in Islam and provide a better understanding of the influence of social media on public perceptions regarding gender issues in Indonesia.

CPR training as a gender and rights-based healthcare issue.

It is not understood how cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training, specifically the representation of sex in CPR manikins, contributes to inequitable outcomes in cardiac arrest survival. The aim of this study was to identify the sex and chest wall secondary sexual characteristics of CPR manikins on the global market. The secondary aim was to identify if manikin manufacturing companies had a publicly available sustainability policy or equivalent, and if these covered products were manufactured. We conducted an observational descriptive study of the secondary sex characteristics and named sex of CPR training manikins available on the global market, and equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI), human rights and sustainability policies of the companies that manufacture them. Nine CPR manikin manufacturers were identified. Twenty CPR manikins were included for analysis. Of the 20 manikins, 75% were identified as male (n = 8, 40%) or no gender specified (n = 7, 35%) and all these had flat torsos-one had a breast overlay available. One company had a 2020 sustainability report that addressed EDI for the workforce only, and a 2023 report addresses this for products manufactured. Adult CPR manikins available globally are largely homogenous, flat-chested and do not have secondary sex characteristics or a named sex. One company had a sustainability report that referenced workforce only and has since committed to EDI for products manufactured. We urge CPR training providers and manufacturers to collectively promote a rights-based approach to healthcare aligned with the commercial determinants of health by committing to improving the diversity of CPR training manikins.

International Conference on Renewal and Reform of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ICRITC24): A Review

It is now almost inevitable that an agenda to identify the relevance of the thoughts of past scholars to the present-day circumstances facing the ummah is to be set that must look criticality of the 'Methodology and Measures' for progress of the ummah in OIC and beyond. This is in its efforts to avoid any labelling of Islamophobic mindset to be in hailed by the present-day media. Islamic studies, and civilisational discourse in our higher learning institutions especially for Muslims and others alike be planned, to give a chance to the idea of alliance of civilizations to prosper rather being dragged into otherwise an alien agenda of clash of civilizations, to be established. Thus, an International Conference on Renewal and Reform of Islamic Thought and Civilization-Enriching Islamic Discourse for Global Civilizational Relevance, was organised to offer audience problems and solutions to create incredible ideas which may have positive impacts during the conference. International Conference on Renewal and Reform of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ICRITC24)-Enriching Islamic Discourse for Global Civilizational Relevance, therefore was a reality and was well organised. Papers in English, Bhasa Malayu and Arabic languages were presented and discussed. The themes covered during two days event mainly but not limited to were:  Intellectual Renewal and Ethical Philosophy;  Science, Technology, and Environment;  Educational Reform and Islamic Thought;  Radicalisation, Social Integration, and Gender Issues;  Islamic Revivalism, Intellectual Renewal and Societal Change;  Education, Knowledge Integration and Interdisciplinary Approaches;  Islamic Thought and Society: Integration, Renewal, and Ethical Engagement;  Intellectual Renewal, Ethical Philosophy and Regional Studies; and  Islamic Arts, Cultural Diversity and Civilisational Dialogue.

Imagination of humanity’s future: representation and comparison of female cyborg images in generative AI paintings

ABSTRACT This article explores the representation of the female image in the visual artwork of generative AI and the gender issues in it, using eight different generative AI systems, ERNIE-ViLG 2.0, Shuhua, and Yihui from China and Nightcafe, Fotor, Jasper Art, DALLE and Deep dream generator from the West, as comparative cases. In this paper, female cyborg is selected as a representative of female images, using the theoretical framework of posthumanism. This paper first provides research background about generative AI and cyborg. By inputting the same text in these eight generative AI systems, this paper obtains 107 images in different scenarios of basic images, home, work, and fighting. By comparing and analysing these images horizontally and vertically, this paper explores how Chinese and Western generative AI systems perceive female cyborg. In conclusion, by choosing female cyborg as a representation of the female figure, this paper explores how generative AI imagines the future of humanity and how this imagination echoes with the human imagination in a paradoxical way.

An Analysis of Female Stereotypes in Advertising and Film

In an era when individuals are inundated with advertisements, film and television productions, and other forms of mass media, the impact of such media on the dissemination of ideas has been profound, which is particularly evident in the shaping of societal norms and the formation of youth perceptions. The current rapid development of media technology, advertising film and television works as an important carrier of the dissemination of cultural concepts, but derived from a number of gender issues, in which the stereotyping of women's image has been widely concerned. Besides, there has been considerable concern regarding the manner and rationale behind the propagation of gender stereotypes through such media. In this paper, content analysis is utilized as the primary instrument for the categorization of female stereotypes and an investigation of their underlying causes, including traditional patriarchal systems, commercial influences, as well as the limitations of creators genders, which have had a significant impact on womens self-perception and the advancement of gender equality in society, hindering the establishment of gender equality, and misinformed youth. Thus, the paper aims to facilitate critical thinking among viewers, enabling them to identify stereotypes, promote gender equality within the industry, and provide opportunities for female creators and decision makers.

A corpus-based cognitive analysis of metaphors of gender issues in national media

A corpus-based cognitive analysis of metaphors of gender issues in national media

“It is just how things are”: physics teachers’ perceptions about the gender gap in secondary school physics

ABSTRACT The gender gap in physics in Australian secondary schools remains a significant issue. This study aims to address this problem by examining how physics teachers perceive girls’ participation in physics, and how these perceptions influence their approach to gender issues and their potential impact on girls’ physics identity. The study uses a multi-case qualitative research design and applies a physics identity framework from a gender perspective. Data was collected from seven physics teachers from three Australian states. The findings indicate a connection between teachers’ perceptions of the gender gap in physics and their prioritisation of addressing this issue in their teaching. The data reveals that teachers with feminist beliefs actively tackle gender issues and challenge norms that hinder girls’ participation. On the other hand, teachers with beliefs aligned with mainstream gender roles tend to maintain the status quo without making evident pedagogical adjustments to specifically support girls’ physics identity. The findings emphasise the necessity for ongoing professional development for physics teachers, enabling them to counter their unconscious gender biases and promote physics to girls.

Toward a gender transformative change perspective for smallholder agricultural commercialization: building consensus among experts

While smallholder agricultural commercialization has been posited as a catalyst to bring about broad economic benefits, evidence demonstrates that commercialization efforts that are gender blind can exacerbate inequalities. This study employed a consensus-building process for gender and agricultural development experts to formulate a perspective for informing the design and implementation of gender transformative smallholder agricultural commercialization interventions. A three-round Delphi process was used to systematically achieve agreement among 23 experts who address gender issues and implement gender transformative approaches (GTAs) in smallholder agricultural systems. Over the three rounds, the experts systematically generated and prioritized 58 intended changes and conceptual considerations for design and implementation into a final set of 23 statements that were categorized as: GTA design and implementation fundamentals, potential target changes in smallholder agriculture, and standard gender integration measures. Unlike many Delphi studies, we also highlight expert statements that did not achieve consensus in both rounds as well as the qualitative divergence. Key themes based on the agreed upon findings include involving diverse actors in co-development of GTAs, applying an intersectional lens, tackling root causes of power relations in the value chain, addressing constraining norms, increasing women’s access to and control of resources, and strengthening agency and solidarity.

Change of Value Paradigm in Women’s Prose (On The Example of the Novels of British and American Women Writers of Late 20th /Early 21st Centuries)

Our study focuses on gender issues from the perspective of “women’s literature”, gives a brief overview of female writers’ works from ancient times to the beginning of the 21st century, and explores how gender stereotypes have affected the texts created by women and about women. The point of view that literature is not gendered, and that there is simply good or bad literature which cannot be called either "masculine" or "feminine", is the starting point of our research, but with one caveat: women bring to literature their own, unique female experience, bio-philosophy, their own hierarchy of values. The aim of our research is to conduct a mapping of existing literature on how “women’s issue” and value paradigm are represented in women’s prose, and, using gender and axiological approaches of analysis, to confirm the belief that the “issue of woman”, gender dominants, as well as thematic and symbolic structures, character and value systems in women’s writings have undergone abrupt changes in historical and cultural context. On the example of the works of British and American women writers of late 20th and early 21st centuries, we can conclude thatcontemporary female writers build their literary activity on the paradigm of individual's psychological problems, thanks to which their works are identified by emotional and valuespecific measurements presented in a new aesthetic and artistic fashion.

Cases of Corruption and Gender and Development Funds in the Philippines

This paper examines corruption-related activities concerning the utilization of Gender and Development (GAD) funds in the country. This study also consolidated cases of abuse of power, mismanagement of resources, malversation, and/or embezzlement in the Budget Policy and framework of Gender and Development implementation. This paper used document review as its primary method of gathering data and paper analysis of the Commission on Audit (COA) and Sandiganbayan decisions and Budget Policy implementation of Gender and Development Funds. Moreover, This paper suggests research-based recommendations for implementing gender-responsive Projects, Programs, and Activities (PPAs) and enhancement of Gender-based policy formation. Findings revealed that most of the cases of abuse in using GAD funds were initially from the inefficiency of institutions and persons in authority to identify existing gender issues. The lack of knowledge on GAD budget policy implementation and lack of accountability measures in the GAD budget framework makes the GAD fund volatile for corruption-related activities of leaders and managers. Thus, the identified corrupt-related practices undermine the processes of GAD budget policy/framework.

Analysis of the Themes of the Stories and Literary Life of Saadat Hasan Manto

Saadat Hasan Manto, a pioneer of Urdu writing, is renowned for his incisive storytelling and unflinching portrayals of social realities. The article examines Manto's literary paths and the profundity of his works' subjects. Manto, born in 1914, was influenced in his storytelling style and thematic concerns by early exposure to the works of Western literary luminaries such as Oscar Wilde and Victor Hugo. Manto's paintings are lauded for their bold realism and precise depiction of societal realities, while they face criticism for their purportedly gruesome nature. This study analyzes Manto's thematic focus, encompassing political, social, and sexual concerns, through a comprehensive examination of academic sources. The findings illustrate Manto's commitment to social critique and realism by depicting a society rife with gender issues, class struggles, and moral hypocrisy. We advocate for Manto's literature, which is occasionally misconstrued and criticized, as a sincere representation of the societal conditions of his era. The study concludes that Manto significantly contributed to Urdu literature by offering an authentic representation of the human condition and a comprehensive critique of societal norms. Saadat Hasan Manto, a pioneer of Urdu writing, is renowned for his incisive storytelling and unflinching portrayals of social realities. This essay examines Manto's literary paths and the profundity of his works' subjects. This study analyzes Manto's thematic emphasis on political, social, and sexual issues through a comprehensive examination of academic sources. The findings illustrate Manto's commitment to social critique and realism by depicting a society rife with gender issues, class struggles, and moral hypocrisy. We advocate for Manto's literature, often misconstrued and criticized, as a sincere representation of the societal conditions of his era. The study concludes that Manto significantly contributed to Urdu literature by offering an authentic depiction of the human condition and a comprehensive critique of societal norms.

Paula Rego and Adriana Varejão: Patterns of an ‘Embodied, Explosive Dialogue’

I propose to trace the patterns of dialogue established between the work of Paula Rego (Lisbon, 1935–2022) and the Brazilian artist Adriana Varejão (Rio de Janeiro, 1964–). The impact and influence of the former is openly acknowledged by Varejão and is the subject matter of an exhibition that was held in Rio de Janeiro (2017), which offers a dialogue between the visual poetics of both artists. I want to investigate how, despite their generational and geographical distance, a material dialogue between the work of both women artists, across continents and cultures, is so very audible. The parameters for comparison include the following ones: an identical fascination with myth and narratives (though Varejão privileges anthropological and historical narratives over Rego’s literary ones); a shared interest in the baroque tradition and the dissipation of borders between high and popular art (i.e. Portuguese eighteenth-century tiles and the art of the popular nineteenth-century ceramist Bordalo Pinheiro); the urge to expose violence, be it in issues of gender, or the colonial trauma; a direct confrontation of a misogynistic reality; the appeal of the grotesque and the choice of parody as a means to unveil ideological ‘secrecy’.

An Inquiry into Gender and Queer Issues in Chinese-Language Sci-Fi Film: A Case Study of The Soul

Abstract This paper explores the complex portrayal of gender and identity in Cheng Wai-ho’s 2021 science fiction mystery, The Soul. Set in a near-future grappling with RNA-based memory transfer and gender reassignment, the film intertwines technological advancements with social issues like tongqi, marriage trafficking, and transgender representation. Utilizing theories by Prosser, Stryker, and Salamon, the analysis examines how the film depicts transgender characters Wang Shicong and Prosecutor Liang, focusing on their experiences within a system of power dynamics and the exploitation of vulnerable groups. By contrasting the mainland and uncut Netflix versions, the paper delves into the boundaries of Chinese censorship regarding LGBTQ+ themes. This study argues that while The Soul challenges heteronormativity and reveals the complexities of intersectional identities, it also offers opportunities for further critique of its limitations in representation. The film’s contribution to Chinese cinema lies in advancing conversations on gender and sexuality while highlighting the need for social reform.

Investigating the Influence of Gender Diversity and Management Practices on the Introduction of Innovation in CEE countries

The role of management in any organizational context is to identify and exploit positive influences and opportunities that lead to the achievement of business objectives and competitive advantage. Those involved in effective management should be able to define the factors that have a decisive influence on the innovative activity of the enterprise. The identification of these influences is a key source of knowledge for defining or adjusting corporate strategies, resulting in long-term benefits and effective business development. As the market is constantly evolving, businesses must adapt to it. In recent years, researchers and experts have paid considerable attention to the study of gender issues in various areas of management. Much of the existing research has shown a positive correlation between gender diversity and innovation in developed countries. However, empirical studies in transition or developing countries remain limited. Therefore, we focus on Central and Eastern European countries. Based on regression analysis of data from the large-scale WBES survey, the aim of the study is to identify the relationships between gender structure of management, management practices and innovation. Unlike previous studies, this study uses a management practices index that combines data from eight indicators of management practices and assesses how well they are structured. This study thus enriches the ongoing research on the impact of gender and the structure of management practices on innovation in the EU member states of Central and Eastern Europe. The contribution of this study lies in the analysis of several different types of gender diversity and a composite index of managerial practices in relation to firms' innovation performance, and the specific context of the analysis in Central and Eastern Europe countries may provide new insights, as different factors affect innovation performance in these countries than in their Western counterparts. The results of this research provide a deeper understanding of the dynamics between gender diversity in management and innovation, which could provide a basis for the development of policies and corporate strategies to promote diversity and innovation in the business environment of Central and Eastern Europe countries.

Toward a Trauma-Informed Comprehensive School Physical Activity Program: Specifying Feasible Practices Across the School Day.

Many students would benefit from trauma-informed physical activity (PA); however, there is a lack of systematic guidance on incorporating trauma-informed practices across school-based PA opportunities. The purpose of this study was to generate a feasible framework for trauma-informed school-based PA. Framework development was guided by a modified Delphi approach, including an exploration phase and an evaluation phase. First, a multidisciplinary working group reviewed extant literature, mapping trauma-informed practices onto the domains and components of the Comprehensive School Physical Activity Program (CSPAP). Subsequently, experts (n = 14) provided quantitative feedback on the utility and feasibility of these practices. Thirty-three practices met pre-determined thresholds for utility and feasibility. Across CSPAP domains, this included attending to: (a) safety; (b) positive communication and relationships; (c) empowerment, choice, and voice; (d) emotion management and skill building; (e) instructor competencies and support; and (f) cultural, historical, and gender issues. Incorporating trauma-informed practices into existing frameworks and approaches to school-based PA may promote uptake of practices that help meet the social and emotional needs of trauma-exposed youth. The present output provides a foundation for generating tools and supports for incorporating trauma-informed practices into school-based PA promotion efforts.

Analysis of Gender Issues in Computational Thinking Approach in Science and Mathematics Learning in Higher Education.

In the contemporary era, Computational Thinking has emerged as a crucial skill for individuals to possess in order to thrive in the 21st century. In this context, there is a need to develop a methodology for cultivating these skills within a science and mathematics content education framework, particularly among pre-service teachers. This study aimed to investigate the impact of Educational Robotics on the development of Computational Thinking skills, with a particular focus on the role of gender, through a scientific and mathematical content teaching approach. A pre-experimental design with a quantitative approach was employed, and it was implemented with a total of 116 pre-service teachers, 38 males and 78 females. The results demonstrated a notable enhancement between the pre-test (8.11) and post-test (9.63) scores, emphasising specific concepts such as simple functions, while, and compound conditional. With respect to gender, statistically significant differences were identified prior to the intervention, but not following its implementation. The high level of Computational Thinking exhibited by both genders was comparable (53.85% in females and 55.26% in males) following the intervention. This indicates that the intervention is a promising approach for enhancing Computational Thinking proficiency, independent of gender and initial proficiency levels. The implementation of Educational Robotics in the teaching of science and mathematics enables the enhancement of Computational Thinking abilities among pre-service teachers, while reducing the observed gender disparity in this area of skill development.

Energy Drink Consumption Among Physically Active Polish Adolescents: Gender and Age-Specific Public Health Issue.

To analyse the consumption of energy drinks (EDs) and the motives for their consumption among physically active adolescents in Poland. A nationwide survey study was conducted in 1,530 adolescents (10-14years old) participating in extracurricular, organised sports activities. A computer-assisted web interview method was applied. Nearly half (46.4%) of the respondents were ED consumers (significantly more boys than girls: 53.0% vs. 47.0%, p = 0.010). The percentage of ED consumers increased with age, from 27.2% in 10-year-olds to 65.4% in the group of 14-year-olds (p < 0.001). The motives and circumstances of ED consumption varied depending on gender: girls were more likely than boys to drink EDs to improve concentration during studying (17.1% vs. 8.8%, p < 0.001) and to stay awake (22.8% vs. 13.8%, p = 0.002), whereas boys more often than girls reported drinking EDs during physical activity (10.9% vs. 6.0%, p = 0.020). It is necessary to implement gender-diversified educational campaigns on negative health effects of EDs, targeting children, parents and teachers, as consumption of EDs has been identified as a significant public health problem in Poland.