Gender Equality Issues Research Articles

The Gender Dimension of International Relations: South African Women in Leadership Positions in United Nations Structures

In the current conditions of confrontation with the West, Russia seeks to diversify its external relations, hence a growing attention it pays to such partners as African countries. Establishing effective cooperation requires deep knowledge of political elites, which is largely facilitated by the research of Russian Africanists, conducted primarily at the Institute of African Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences as well as in other research centers - the Centre for African Studies of the Institute of World History of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Institute of Asian and African Countries of Moscow State University, MGIMO University, HSE University, IMEMO of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Oriental Faculty of St. Petersburg State University, etc. Among their areas of interest are such subjects as the study of female political elites, as well as the elites in multilateral institutions, primarily in the UN structures.Since the early 2000s, one of the main features of the formation of political leadership in the Republic of South Africa (South Africa) has been the expansion of women’s representation in government bodies at all levels. Some of these women held leadership positions in various UN structures. This article uses functional and biographical research methods to analyze the activities of South African women who have been active in human rights issues, in the fight against hunger and HIV/AIDS at the national and international levels, at the UN and the African Union. This article’s research was centered at such prominent South African political figures as Mrs. N. Pillay, Mrs. P. Mlambo-Ngcuka, and Mrs. S. Sisulu. The author notes both their achievements in solving the above-mentioned contemporary problems and the difficulties they encountered in their activities.Special attention is paid to the attitude of South African women towards the issue of gender equality, which they consider a necessary condition for democratic development. At various multilateral venues, Mrs. N. Pillay, Mrs. P. Mlambo-Ngcuka, and Mrs. S. Sisulu advocated for the empowerment of women in all areas of political, economic, and public life, both while holding leadership positions in the UN and after completing their terms of office. The long-standing work of South African women at the UN in the fight for human rights, against hunger and HIV/AIDS and for gender equality demonstrates the possibility of women’s participation in solving contemporary problems at levels of utmost significance.

Exploring the intersection of management control systems and gender equality: an integrative literature review

Purpose This study aims to provide a deeper understanding of how management control systems (MCSs) can contribute to achieving gender equality. Design/methodology/approach The researchers undertook an integrative review of the literature, focusing on the characteristics of MCSs for the development of female managers as well as highlighting the deployment of MCSs by them. Nineteen (19) articles were selected from a database in terms of specified criteria, following which they were analysed in terms of the identified MCSs. Findings The study found interrelations between MCSs and the internal as well as external factors that promote the realisation of gender equality while highlighting the characteristics of the utilisation of MCSs by female managers. Future research agendas related to these two aspects are also suggested. Originality/value Theoretically, the study is significant because it offers new insights for analysing gender and gender equality issues in MCSs research, thus opening up fresh dimensions for future research. In terms of praxis, the study promotes gender symmetry in companies by addressing gender equality from the perspective of MCSs. The research also charts a novel course for promoting gender equality in the workplace regarding how female managers use MCSs.

Eco-activist imagery in literary texts for children (a case study of English postmodern fairy tales and short stories)

This research focuses on the eco-activist multimodal imagery in English postmodern fairy tales and short stories for children as a crucial tool in meaning-making. It is claimed that literary texts for children dynamically reflect current global trends in culture, environmental pollution, gender equality, and family issues. While some topics remain taboo for young readers, others are increasingly prevalent, gradually replacing magical worlds with more realistic, thought-provoking imagery. It has been observed that in recent years, the participation of young people and children in the eco-activist movement has been increasing. They advocate for environmental preservation and solving urgent environmental problems. Literary texts for children are essential tools for fostering a responsible attitude toward the environment at a young age. Due to them, child-readers are introduced to crucial eco-centric issues and ways of solving them and taught the consequences of their actions on nature. The analysis of our case study reveals that the protagonists of eco-activist fairy tales are primarily children concerned about environmental issues. Shadow narratives and the point of view of the child-focaliser are realized by the visual means, i.e. visual metaphors, salience of definite objects on the pictures, interplay of colours and shapes. It has been observed that visual imagery expands, clarifies environmental protection issues and appeals to the better understanding of child-readers their role in preserving the planet and keeping it clean and safe for living. Visual components clearly show the child-reader the damage caused to the environment by human activity: polluted air, water bodies and cities, injured animals, and deforestation. Important meanings are embedded in the dominant colours of the illustrations: green and blue predominate in the illustrations of nature, while grey and black accompany the images of the results of anthropogenic activity. The victory of Good (nature) in fairy tales is represented by a shift from grey and black to green. Intertextual links between literary texts for children by the same author can be formed through illustrations. Thus, a single fictional world is created in which the eco-activist activity of a child-antagonist is not an isolated phenomenon.

Issues on Gender Equality in the Qur'an Based on Amina Wadud's Hermeneutical Approach

This research aims to describe findings in the Qur'an regarding the issue of gender equality. Nowadays, there is still a stereotype of justifying men as having a higher position in reminding women who have done wrong. Even not a few men have a patriarchal paradigm towards women. The paradigm certainly needs to be straightened out through analysis of studies of several interpretations of the Qur'an. Using Amina Wadud's hermeneutic review as an approach, it was found that the Qur'an indeed explains the position between men and women with no dichotomy. By (1) categorizing interpretations into traditional, reactive, and holistic approaches and (2) identifying which methods best fit the analysis; philological analysis is then applied to examine the language and syntax of the Qur'anic text and uncover the deeper meanings of certain words and phrases The Qur'an does not describe the existence of patriarchal, matriarchal, misogynist, and misandry ideologies. Furthermore, it is also explained that (1) women have the right to inheritance and dowry, (2) they have the same commandments in worship, (3) men and women have a primordial agreement of monotheism, (4) men and women have the same potential to achieve achievements, and (5) men and women have compatibility in piety. These findings indicate that men and women have harmony before God and that there is no dichotomy between men and women in carrying out their functions and roles on earth.

Empowering Women in Mathematics: Pioneering a Rigorous and Inclusive STEM Paradigm for Vikasit Bharat 2047

As India marches towards its centenary of independence in 2047, the nation’s progress is closely tied to its advancements in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). However, the journey towards an equitable STEM landscape, where women are equal stakeholders, remains a critical challenge. The underrepresentation of women in mathematics, a foundational discipline within STEM, poses significant hurdles to achieving national and global goals of scientific innovation and technological leadership. This paper explores the critical role of empowering women in mathematics, both as a standalone discipline and as an essential pillar of the broader STEM ecosystem, and its potential to shape a new paradigm for India’s future. The history of mathematics is rich with contributions from women, yet their stories have often been marginalized. From Hypatia of Alexandria to India’s own Shakuntala Devi and contemporary mathematicians like Neena Gupta, women have consistently broken barriers to leave an indelible mark on mathematical thought. Despite these successes, systemic challenges such as gender bias, societal expectations, and lack of mentorship continue to hinder women’s full participation in the field. This paper examines these barriers in the Indian context and explores how they can be dismantled through targeted interventions at the educational, institutional, and policy levels. India’s recent strides in promoting girls’ education and STEM participation through initiatives like "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" and STEM education programs have created a favorable environment. However, the representation of women in higher-level mathematics education, research, and academic leadership roles remains disproportionately low. The paper highlights the importance of nurturing young girls’ interest in mathematics from school to university, and the role that academic institutions must play in creating inclusive environments where women can thrive. Practical strategies for encouraging this interest include the establishment of women-led mathematics clubs, mentorship programs, and scholarship initiatives aimed at fostering early engagement with mathematics. As we look towards 2047, the integration of women into the fabric of mathematical research and STEM professions is essential for national growth. Mathematics is increasingly at the core of cutting-edge STEM fields like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and quantum computing. Women’s participation in these fields can have far-reaching effects, not only in advancing technology but also in addressing societal challenges like healthcare optimization, environmental modeling, and resource management. By fostering a culture that supports women’s contributions to mathematics, India can enhance its global standing in STEM innovation and leadership. This paper also presents a case study of the author’s research on mathematical modeling, showcasing how interdisciplinary approaches rooted in mathematical principles can drive societal progress. The author’s work exemplifies the potential of mathematics to not only solve complex technical problems but also to influence cultural and historical understanding, as seen in projects like Vedic Geometry and the mathematical underpinnings of ancient temple architecture. In conclusion, empowering women in mathematics is not just an issue of gender equity but a national imperative. As India envisions a new Bharat by 2047, women mathematicians and STEM professionals must be at the forefront of this transformation. By breaking down barriers and creating pathways for women to excel in mathematics, India can build a more innovative, inclusive, and prosperous future. This paper calls for a collective effort from educational institutions, policymakers, and industries to invest in women’s STEM education and career development, ensuring that their contributions shape the future of a technologically advanced and equitable India.

Contemporary issues in upholding women's rights and gender Equality

On a daily basis, individuals are confronted with a multitude of challenging circumstances, including unfair treatment, interpersonal conflicts, and acts of aggression. The issue of gender equality is particularly pertinent in the present era, as it is evident that all individuals should be afforded equal rights, the right to self-realisation and self-affirmation, and the right to protection. The objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive account of the issues and achievements pertaining to gender equality and the fulfilment of women's rights. The study employed a range of methodological approaches, including theoretical analysis, synthesis, and generalisation; empirical sociological survey and description; and generalisation. The theoretical framework is as follows: The study concentrates on the pivotal issues of the gender system, its evolution, and the realisation of women's rights in diverse global contexts, including Europe. The authors conducted an in-depth analysis of the core issues and accomplishments in this domain. The sociological survey thus revealed the attitudes of Ukrainians towards the phenomenon of gender equality and women's rights, their understanding of the characteristics of the concept, and the legislative basis for its development. The findings of the research demonstrate the necessity for the establishment of a unified global system of gender influence. This will ensure the efficacy of achieving equality between the sexes and facilitate daily life for other marginalised groups in a more expedient manner. The article illustrates that the mere adoption of a legislative framework and inclusion in various international programmes are insufficient for the effective addressing of the issue of gender equality. It is imperative that the general public is made aware of the significance of gender transformation. It is essential to motivate and prepare the population for these changes. Furthermore, the collection and processing of statistical information on gender issues must be more efficient.

Exploring the Legal Theory and Practical Implications of Marital Family Rights

Objective: The relevance of the research topic is stipulated by the need to review and update the legal regulation of family rights and obligations in the context of modern social and legal challenges. Theoretical Framework: The issues of gender equality, protection of children’s rights and regulation of international marriages require special attention and modernisation of existing legal provisions. The study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the theoretical, legal, and practical aspects of family rights and obligations of spouses. Method: The research methodology is based on the analysis of current legislation, comparative legal and historical legal methods, and sociological data. Results and Discussion: We have identified fundamental problems and contradictions in the legal regulation of family rights and responsibilities, such as gender imbalance, difficulties in regulating international marriages and insufficient measures to protect children’s rights and prevent domestic violence. Research Implications: Recommendations are made to introduce gender-neutral legislation, unified standards for international marriages, and strengthening measures to protect children’s rights. The author also emphasises the need for legal regulation of new forms of family relations, such as civil partnerships and same-sex marriages. Originality/Value: The results obtained have practical significance in developing recommendations for improving the legislative framework. This will contribute to improving the efficiency of legal regulation of family rights and obligations, protecting the interests of all family members, and strengthening the family institution in general.

Holistic Hermeneutics of Qur’anic Verses: Reinterpreting for Achieving Gender Equality in Contemporary Islamic Society

Background and Objectives: This study addresses the patriarchal bias prevalent in traditional Qur’anic exegesis, which often privileges male perspectives and neglects women’s experiences. Such interpretations can lead to gender injustices justified by certain verses. The primary objective is to explore Amina Wadud’s holistic hermeneutic approach, which aims to affirm gender equality in Qur’anic interpretation. Methodology: Employing a qualitative literature-based approach, this research integrates thematic (maudu’i) exegesis, philological analysis, and a women’s perspective. Additionally, the study draws on Hans-Georg Gadamer’s hermeneutic concepts of prejudice, fusion of horizons, and dialogue, thereby enriching a holistic framework for Qur’anic interpretation. Main Findings: The findings indicate that the Qur’an fundamentally supports gender equality. Both men and women share equal rights, obligations, and potentials—whether in worship, social roles, or broader achievements. When examined holistically, verses addressing inheritance, human origins, and gender relations emphasize justice and balance rather than legitimizing any form of gender dominance. Contributions: This research contributes by proposing a more responsive interpretive method that engages contemporary issues of gender equality. The holistic hermeneutic approach encourages re-examining verses often misunderstood in traditional commentary. Consequently, it provides a valuable resource for Islamic education, social policy, and women’s empowerment initiatives. Conclusion: This study concludes that the Qur’an does not endorse patriarchy or matriarchy but rather underscores justice and equality. While the findings remain mostly theoretical, this approach opens avenues for further research on policy implementation and inclusive, gender-just education systems.

Sosialisasi Kesetaraan Gender untuk Membangun Kesadaran Hak Anak Sejak Dini Bagi Anak-Anak di Sanggar Kreativitas Anak PKPA

Gender equality education has emerged as a key focus in raising knowledge of children’s rights from a young age. This article describes how the Center for Child Protection and Studies (PKPA) uses community, parent, and child involvement in educational programs to promote gender equality. The primary goal, particularly in Indonesia, is to establish a welcoming, equitable, and gender-neutral atmosphere. By using a participative, local wisdom-based approach, this program was able to change community perceptions, overcome gender stereotypes, and raise children’s understanding of their rights. In addition to raising awareness of gender equality issues among the younger generation, this outreach hopes to spark larger social change. With the cooperation of many stakeholders, the PKPA program has developed into a viable model for building an inclusive and equitable society.

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.

The Impact of Psychological Violence on Social Cohesion and Political Stability

Psychological violence, particularly against women, has detrimental effects on mental health. Political leaders must prioritize initiatives to address this issue and empower survivors of gender equality and social justice. By integrating the principles of justice and equality into political agendas, societies can foster gender equity and protect the rights and dignity of individuals. This study examines the impact of psychological violence on social cohesion and its ramifications on political stability. Using a comprehensive mixed-methods approach, this study explored gender dynamics, the impact of psychological violence, and political involvement. Conflict theory is used to understand how psychological violence exacerbates social and political tension. This study found that political intimidation threatens democratic norms and social cohesion. Recognizing these distinctions is crucial for crafting targeted interventions and policies to mitigate the belongings of psychological strength, foster social consistency, and safeguard administrative stability in an interconnected world.

The Role of Modern Education in Historical Move Towards Gender Equality Issue in Ethiopia

The aim of this study was to understand the role of modern education in the historical development of gender equality in Ethiopia over time and political-ideological change. To achieve this objective, a qualitative research method was used to analyse various relevant literature on the development of gender equality in Ethiopia. The documents were selected based on their authenticity and consistency with the objective of this study. The findings of this study show that gender inequality in Ethiopia has experienced both change and continuity. The introduction and development of modern education has brought about significant political and social changes that have led to progress in gender equality over the years. One of the persistent problems is that traditional gender norms have influenced societal attitudes and expectations in Ethiopia, hindering efforts to achieve gender equality in the country. It is therefore necessary to challenge and change societal attitudes through gender-responsive education and the development and implementation of policies that promote equal opportunities and rights for all genders.

Gender equality in radiology: 3 steps worth taking

Despite many advancements in gender equality in multiple professions, radiology continues to struggle with disparities in representation. This paper proposes a threestep approach to further address the gender equality issue within radiology, focusing on early exposure, dispelling misconceptions and promoting early and meaningful female mentorship.

THE DEPICTION CHARACTER OF PATRIACHAL CULTURE IN THE MULAN MOVIE

The research object chosen in the film Mulan is because the narrative contained in the film Mulan discusses things that are very closely related to the phenomenon of patriarchal culture as is often the case in Indonesian society today. In this thesis there is a problem formulation, namely how patriarchal culture was formed and also the causes of the emergence of patriarchal culture in the film Mulan. Patriarchy is a structure that places men at the center compared to women. Patriarchal culture places women in a second position with limitations and is not allowed to exceed men's position as the main actor. This research is a qualitative descriptive method obtained through literature study. The conclusion of this thesis is that the writer concludes that Mulan's character in her behavior is able to fight discrimination and obstacles imposed on women by showing behavior as a leader, responsible, independent and brave enough to take risks. The writer hopes that similar research can use other approaches such as a feminist perspective and for filmmakers the writer hopes to raise the issue of gender equality so that it can help in building public awareness of the importance of gender equality.

Preservice teachers' perceptions of gender equity issues in the mathematics classroom

Preservice teachers' perceptions of gender equity issues in the mathematics classroom

The Economics of Education: A Panel Data Analysis of the Impact of Gendered Human Capital on Output Growth in India

Using panel regressions, this article investigates to what extent a reduction in gender inequality in education may increase growth of output at sub-national level in India. The article finds a considerable impact of gender inequality on economic growth which is robust. Point estimates suggest that 0.58% of the growth rate is accounted for by a better gender ratio in education attainment. Given the assumption that the distribution of innate abilities among males and females is equal, it is observed that under-addressed issue of gender equity has resulted in educational inequality and further to the adverse selection of a less efficient pool of labour having a negative impact on economic growth through lowering the average quality of human capital. Gender equality is an outcome-based achievement depending upon the successful accessibility of opportunities by females thereby the issue of gender equity becomes the precondition for gender equality.

Legally Blonde Male Gaze and Gender Equality

Abstract: The male gaze and equality between men and women is a problem that society is improving but still not fully solved, and it is also a hot topic that many people are concerned about. In daily life, many women feel afraid and panic more or less because of the gaze of men, and often feel that they do not enjoy the same treatment and equal rights with men in daily life. Film is a medium of emotional expression. It will reflect many realistic problems through the way of deduction, causing the audience to think and give positive guidance. From the perspective of feminism, this paper interprets the issues of male gaze, stereotype and gender equality, as well as the reflection of these issues in the real society, from the dialogue, action and plot relationship of the characters in Legally Blonde and analyzes the method and process of the heroine Elle Woods' "counter-gaze" towards the male gaze. And the process of breaking stereotypes and growing up.

Voting Rights of Indigenous Papuan Women in a Patriarchal Culture: A Study of Gender Equality among Indigenous Papuan Women in Yoboi Village, Sentani District, Jayapura Regency, Papua From the Perspective of Jurgen Habermas

Gender equality has become a significant issue and a focal point at both the national and international levels. The government has implemented various measures as a commitment to minimizing gender disparities. Women, being a vital part of human resources, must optimize their abilities, intelligence, and their role as mothers. Therefore, the issue of gender equality must be intertwined in the development process. Consequently, increasing women’s responsibilities has a positive impact on economic growth in Indonesia. The Gender Empowerment Index (IPG) reveals a substantial gap between provinces in Indonesia, especially in the eastern regions. The cultural system in Papua, which adheres to a patriarchal system, results in the confinement and neglect of women’s voting rights. This research adopts a critical or transformative paradigm processed from the intersection of criticism regarding assumptions made by previous researchers. A critical perspective typically utilizes information gaps for analysis, followed by reconstructing a new narrative without gaps. This allows for the development of a new, feasible concept, enabling researchers to design a new approach. This qualitative study aims to describe and explain the suppression of voting rights experienced by indigenous Papuan women in Yoboi Village, Sentani District, Jayapura Regency, Papua. The results indicate that Papuan women face numerous obstacles in exercising their voting rights in education, economy, culture, and religion. However, there are several ways to address these challenges, such as creating a discussion forum to explore the potential of Papuan women and providing opportunities for them to contribute their opinions. Additionally, the roles of tribal chiefs and customary leaders are crucial in providing space for Papuan women to actively participate in the development of their villages. Keywords: patriarchal culture, indigenous Papuan women

Voice of Empowerment: Debunking Gendered Language in Emma Watson’s Advocacy

For nearly five decades, Robin Lakoff’s women’s language features have been well examined. These features such as hedges, intensifiers, and rising intonation have traditionally positioned women as powerless language users due to their less-assertive nature. However, few have highlighted how these features can serve as rhetorical strategies that can effectively utilized to argue confidently without appearing overly assertive, in line with social expectations. This study examines women’s language features used by Emma Watson at the HeForShe Campaign 2014. By using a descriptive qualitative method, we collected data from Emma’s speech to identify the features of the women’s language that she used to address gender equality issues. The study found six of Lakoff’s (1975) women’s language features, with lexical hedges being the most frequently used to represent politeness and caution in speaking as well as expressing respect for the interlocutor. Notably, tag questions, precise color terms, hypercorrect grammar, and avoiding strong swear words were not found, likely due to their irrelevance to the feminism-focused topic in the campaign. Instead of highlighting the perceived weaknesses of women’s language, this study emphasizes that women’s language can be a means to empower women’s voices. Emma effectively and persuasively delivered her campaign by using her mastery of language, storytelling techniques, and rhetoric to engage the audience. Overall, Emma strategically utilized women’s language to demonstrate her linguistic capability and even persuade the audience effectively rather than showing the weakness of women’s language as commonly perceived by previous studies.

A New Vision for Enhancing Women’s Leadership Role in Higher Education Decision-Making

Legal issues of gender equality and the principle of inadmissibility of discrimination against women in all spheres of life are becoming relevant worldwide, including in the Republic of Kazakhstan. This study aims to show ways to enhance the role of women in the higher education system, which is necessary to implement the principle of real equality in relationships with men, the principle of fair distribution of managerial positions without gender discrimination, and the implementation of leadership activities by women due to their managerial potential. To achieve this goal, the authors have researched this topic in a comparative legal format, comparing the practice and legal peculiarities of Kazakhstan and some developed countries. We used logical analysis, comparative legislative analysis, legal analysis, and legal forecasting. Kazakh legislative acts that promote the expansion of women’s rights while enhancing the role of women in higher education were analyzed. The practical results of the study consist in the formulation and justification of organizational and legal ways to increase the leadership role of women in higher education in the Republic. The scientific novelty lies in the previously unexplored topic of gender equality in the higher education system of Kazakhstan from a legal viewpoint. The conclusion about gender asymmetry should encourage other researchers to study this problem on a larger scale and deepen the understanding that only clearly, competently, and equally selected leaders of both sexes can positively influence the accelerated development of the higher education system and ensure the actual competitiveness of Kazakhstani universities and their graduates. Doi: 10.28991/ESJ-2024-08-05-016 Full Text: PDF