Promote Gender Equality Research Articles

Developments and Conflicts between Christianity and Feminism

Christianity, one of the primary world religions, has profound influences in shaping people's views of gender equality. Many Christians perceive feminism to be against Christian doctrine regarding issues like marriage and gender equality. However, Christian feminists refute this with claims that reinterpreting the Bible helps reveal hidden ideas supporting gender equality - leading to further investigation of this relationship between Christianity and feminism. This research topic addresses Christian feminism's development alongside its conflicts with conservative Christian forces - particularly its contributions towards protecting women's rights. Through a systematic review of the historical literature on Christian feminism, the paper analyzes how it has promoted gender equality using the religious framework and examines conservative Christians' responses toward these movements. Findings indicate that many Christians are gradually accepting feminist ideas, although conservative Christians may see it as contradictory to biblical teachings. Christian feminism has made significant contributions towards protecting women's rights despite ongoing challenges from conservative forces. By systematically tracing its development, including conflicts with conservative forces, this paper unveils its contributions towards protecting these rights as well as providing researchers with an in-depth examination of religion-gender relations and gender equality.

A Study of Human Resource Capability for Enhancing Local Food-Processing Entrepreneur’s Performance among Community-Based Enterprises

This research explores the human resource (HR) capabilities that reinforce performance and resilience in community-based enterprises (CBEs). Locally, the food-processing sector, specifically focusing on the provinces of Ubon Ratchathani, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, and Si Sa Ket, serves as the focus of this study. Adopting a qualitative research methodology based on acceptable criteria, the researchers conducted three rounds of purposive sample selection. Ultimately, 16 CBEs comprising 43 key informants were included in the study. Categorical data were gathered through diverse methods to ensure data saturation and mitigate bias. The approaches of focus groups, observations, face-to-face interviews, and analysis of relevant documentation were ethically employed. Thematic and content analyses were used to examine the data within the framework of HR capability and operational performance among CBE members. The findings derived from HR capability and their contributions to firm performance rely on several critical aspects, such as the importance of employee training and development, leadership effectiveness, strategies for motivation and retention, fostering a supportive organizational culture, implementing strategic HR practices, adapting to new technologies, leveraging external HR services, adhering to regulatory standards, promoting gender equality and inclusivity, and understanding economic influences. This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of strategic HR management by contextualizing these internal (HR) and external (economy) practices within CBEs. Additionally, it offers an essential agenda for practical recommendations to HR professionals and policymakers with a shared goal of advancing local and national growth and development. Importantly, it emphasizes achieving sustainable growth for CBEs and enhancing resilience in the food-processing sector

Women’s experiences of gender-based violence supports through an intersectional lens: a global scoping review

ObjectiveTo apply an intersectional lens to explore how the interconnected social identities of women across global settings impact access experiences for gender-based violence (GBV) supports.DesignA scoping review.Data sourcesWe systematically searched...

Domestic Violence Against Women in Nepal

Violence, as defined by the WHO, is a pervasive issue globally, with the intentional use of force leading to harm, injuries, or death. In Nepal, gender-based violence is significant, affecting domestic settings and leading to societal acceptance of violence against women. A systemic issue, violence is often underreported due to cultural norms and societal expectations. The prevalence of domestic violence underscores the need for a comprehensive framework to combat this issue, emphasizing the role of patriarchy in perpetuating violence against women. Statistics indicate high levels of violence against women, stemming from deep-rooted patriarchal beliefs that reinforce male dominance and women’s subordination. The research focuses on exploring domestic violence in the Madhesh region, delving into the physical manifestations of violence against women. A critical analysis of theoretical frameworks, particularly patriarchy, reveals how societal norms shape unequal gender relations and perpetuate violence, hindering women’s autonomy. By addressing patriarchal structures and promoting gender equality, efforts can be made to combat domestic violence and create a safer environment for all individuals.

Prevalence and determinants of intimate partner violence in pregnancy: a multicentre, binational study

BackgroundGlobally, intimate partners are the most common perpetrators of violence against women. Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) contributes significantly to the burden of intimate partner violence (IPV) in Africa, with four of every 10 women in SSA having experienced IPV. When IPV occurs in pregnancy, it is significantly associated with adverse outcomes. This study sought to assess the prevalence, determinants and complications of IPV in pregnancy in Nigeria and Ghana, two SSA countries.MethodsA descriptive, cross-sectional study, conducted between February-July 2022, amongst pregnant women attending antenatal care clinics in 17 health facilities across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria, and three hospitals in three regions in Ghana. The women were screened for IPV using an adaptation of the ‘HARK’ (Humiliation, Afraid, Rape, Kick) questions. Data obtained were analysed using the IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 25. Associations between IPV and sociodemographic characteristics of the women and their spouses/partners were tested using Pearson’s Chi square. Factors found to be statistically significant were subjected to binary logistic regression modelling to determine the predictors of IPV. The level of statistical significance was set at a p-value of < 0.05.ResultsThe prevalence of IPV was 26.2%. Predictors of IPV included the women’s marital status (p = 0.001), educational status (p = 0.040), rural residence (p = 0.034), occupation (p = 0.040), spouse’s/partner’s occupation (p = 0.021), use of illicit drugs by spouse/partner (p = 0.014), history of psychiatric illness in spouse/partner (p = 0.030), experience of IPV in previous relationship(s) by spouse/partner (p = 0.011), and witness of parental IPV by spouse/partner (p < 0.001). The most common complication of IPV in pregnancy were the mental health complications of anxiety (54.7%) and depression (46.9%). Miscarriages (15.6%) and preterm birth (9.5%) were the most common pregnancy complications.ConclusionsOne in every four pregnant women in Nigeria and Ghana experience IPV, with significant mental health and pregnancy complications. Routine IPV screening in pregnancy and prompt referral of screen-positive women to support services is recommended. Policies and interventions that promote gender equality and women’s economic and educational empowerment are beneficial.

Exploring the Factors Influencing Women Entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia: A Strategic Plan for Sustainable Entrepreneurial Growth

Saudi Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at diversifying the economy and enhancing societal inclusivity, aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting gender equality and sustainable economic growth. Sustainability is central to fostering women’s entrepreneurship, as it drives social equity, economic diversification, and innovation, elements which are crucial to sustainable development. While the existing literature has primarily focused on women’s entrepreneurship in the Western world, limited attention has been given to its development in the Global South, particularly in Saudi Arabia. As a nation undergoing transformative social, cultural, and economic shifts, women entrepreneurs play a critical role in aligning entrepreneurial efforts with global sustainability goals. This research investigates the factors influencing Saudi women to become entrepreneurs, specifically examining the factors that inspire or hinder them from creating their own ventures. Drawing upon cognitive and social capital theories, which have proven their soundness in the existing literature, this research utilizes a dataset of 1715 women entrepreneurs analyzed through binomial logistic regression. The findings indicate that social desirability, relational capital, experience as angel investors, age, income, and education significantly increase the likelihood of women’s entrepreneurship. By contextualizing women’s entrepreneurship within Saudi Arabia’s evolving societal and economic landscape, this research highlights their potential as drivers of inclusive growth and sustainable economic empowerment. Furthermore, the research outlines strategies to enhance women’s entrepreneurial participation, contributing both to the entrepreneurship literature and the realization of Saudi Vision 2030.

Gender Equality and Sustainable Development

Abstract- This paper critically examines the relationship between gender equality and sustainable development, highlighting the moral, ethical, and practical reasons for integrating gender equality into strategies for long-term global sustainability. It explores the role of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in promoting gender equality alongside sustainable development goals, offering insights into actionable targets and broader human rights issues. Key discussions include an analysis of international norms and standards, particularly under International Labour Organization (ILO) guidelines, and their relevance to women's rights and employment equity. The paper also critiques areas of overlap and divergence between gender equality objectives and sustainable development priorities while drawing upon the foundational principles of International Relations, with references to the United Nations Millennium Declaration of 2000.

Female Islamic Scholars in the Digital Space

This paper examines the presence of female scholars in digital spaces, with a focus on their roles, contributions, and the challenges they face. Employing a qualitative method- ology, the study utilises data collection techniques such as a literature review of scholarly articles and relevant online sources. The digital data examined in this research comprises scholarly articles and pertinent online resources. The data analysis employs thematic anal- ysis to identify patterns and key themes, providing a deeper understanding of the phe- nomenon under investigation. The findings reveal that female scholars, such as Ustadzah Halimah Alaydrus, Ning Imaz Fatimatuz Zahra, and Umi Lailatul Rahma Adi, play a piv- otal role in shaping religious discourse in the digital realm. However, they face numerous challenges, including online harassment and gender discrimination. The implications of this study emphasise the necessity of fostering inclusive digital environments that support the full participation of women on various online platforms. Additionally, the research ad- vocates for continued investigation and dialogue to advance gender equality within Islamic scholarship and to promote inclusive approaches to Islamic thought in the digital age.

The role of urban furniture in promoting gender equality and static social activities in public spaces

The role of urban furniture in promoting gender equality and static social activities in public spaces

Gender inequality in healthcare leadership: the challenges women face in breaking through the glass ceiling

BackgroundWomen comprise more than two-thirds of the academic medicine faculty and half of the general population in Pakistan, yet their representation in healthcare leadership roles remains disproportionately low.AimThe study aims to explore the experiences of Pakistani women in healthcare leadership positions to unravel the challenges they face in acquiring and sustaining leadership positions and to identify the factors that help them overcome these challenges.MethodsAn exploratory qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews was conducted. Purposive sampling was utilized. Telephonic interviews of ten women in healthcare leadership positions were conducted, recorded, and transcribed. Thematic analysis was performed by manual coding.ResultsA total of 14 subthemes were generated that finally emerged as 5 themes. The challenges of women in healthcare leadership positions included unsupportive work environment, lack of confidence and leadership skills, and struggle to balance family and work. Personal strategies, family support, and women-centric organizational policies were identified as aids to professional advancement.ConclusionMost of the challenges faced by women in acquiring and sustaining leadership positions in Pakistan are rooted in a patriarchal culture that assigns conventional roles and expectations to women. Professional competence and strategic acumen along with inclusive work environment and policies can help promote gender equality.

The Contribution of Empowered Women Programs in Promoting Gender Equality for Sustainable Development Goals

The Contribution of Empowered Women Programs in Promoting Gender Equality for Sustainable Development Goals

Development and validation of the Women Autonomy Scale for measuring psychosocial freedom from conventional gender roles

BackgroundThe concepts of masculinity and femininity have historically shaped gender roles, leading to inequality and gender-based discrimination. Women’s autonomy, defined as the ability to make independent choices across various life domains, remains inadequately measured by existing scales. This study addresses this gap by developing and validating the Women Autonomy Scale (WAS).MethodsThe development and validation of the WAS involved four phases with a total of 2,252 adult women from Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan. These phases included exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and assessments of convergent and discriminant validity by using the Psychosocial Life Satisfaction Scale and the Dependent Personality Disorder sub-scale of the Personality Disorders Questionnaire.ResultsThe WAS demonstrated high reliability across the four phases (α = 0.810 to 0.857). Test-retest reliability was 0.788 after two weeks of initial administration. EFA revealed a four-factor structure consisting of 18 items: personal freedom, freedom from conventional femininity, freedom from conventional masculinity, and freedom from shame. CFA confirmed this structure, showing good fit indices (CFI = 0.951, RMSEA = 0.052). The scale’s convergent validity was established through a significant positive correlation with the Psychosocial Life Satisfaction Scale (r = 0.394, p < 0.01), and discriminant validity was confirmed via a significant inverse correlation with the Dependent Personality Disorder sub-scale (r = -0.255, p < 0.01).ConclusionThe WAS is a reliable and valid instrument for comprehensively assessing women’s autonomy. It addresses limitations of previous measures and provides a robust tool for research and policymaking aimed at promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment.

International Conference Proceedings on Law and Emerging Technologies

The International Conference on Law and Emerging Technologies, held on 15 January 2025, brought together legal scholars, policymakers, and technology experts to explore the evolving intersection of law and digital innovation. Convened and edited by Naeem AllahRakha, the conference focused on critical issues such as AI in judicial decision-making, cybersecurity risk management, smart cities, online labor relations, and ethical dilemmas of autonomous systems. Experts discussed how digital transformation can advance gender equality in public administration and examined the legal frameworks governing smart contracts and digital transactions in e-government. The conference proceedings, published by the International Journal of Law and Policy, reflect a diverse range of perspectives on ensuring legal adaptability in an era of rapid technological advancements. Through in-depth discussions and scholarly contributions, the event aimed to foster innovative regulatory approaches that balance technological progress with ethical and legal considerations, shaping the future of law in the digital age.

The European Parliament and gender equality promotion through parliamentary diplomacy

ABSTRACT This article analyses the European Parliament’s (EP’s) gender equality promotion through parliamentary diplomacy by examining: (a) the relevant strategic, policy and legal frameworks; and (b) the political practice of gender-oriented parliamentary diplomacy in the 9th parliamentary term (2019–2024) towards Saudi Arabia by three key EP institutional actors: the plenary, the Foreign Affairs Committee and the interparliamentary delegation for relations with the Arab Peninsula. The insights are drawn from the data collected through documentary analysis and qualitative analysis in the form of interviews and a survey carried out with Members of the EP (MEPs) and administrative staff. The article argues that the case of gender equality shows that the EP is a highly advanced diplomatic player displaying significant potential to mainstream core EU norms abroad, but that its influence hinges both on the specific socio-cultural and political circumstances in the partner country and on the internal dynamics operating within the EP.

A Review of Women Leadership in Chinese Educational Systems: Challenges and Opportunities

This study examines the role of women in educational leadership, with a focus on the barriers, opportunities, and challenges they face. Despite significant progress toward gender equality, women remain underrepresented in leadership positions within educational institutions, particularly in cultures with strong patriarchal traditions. Key barriers include the glass ceiling, cultural stereotypes, and the dual burden of professional and domestic responsibilities. The review highlights the transformational and participative leadership styles often associated with women. Opportunities for women's advancement have emerged through targeted interventions such as mentorship programs, leadership development initiatives, and flexible work policies. Promoting gender equality in educational leadership requires addressing institutional and cultural barriers, fostering an inclusive leadership culture, and implementing strategies that empower women to succeed in leadership roles. This research underscores the importance of gender equality as a driver of innovation, diversity, and equity in educational systems globally

The Global Rise of Anti-Gender Movements and Feminist Resistance Strategies

In recent years, there has been a noticeable surge in anti-gender and anti-feminist discourses in international politics. Politicians, policymakers, and diverse societal actors in various countries challenge or reject feminist ideas and gender-related concepts, as well as support policy changes that erode the structures and institutions that have been instrumental in upholding women's rights, promoting gender equality, and protecting the rights of LGBTQ people. This special issue of Politikon: The IAPSS Journal of Political Science seeks to explore the multifaceted nature of these discourses, examining their origins, implications, and potential impacts on domestic, regional, and international levels. Additionally, it aims to identify strategies and opportunities for feminist resistance and advocacy in the face of the backlash.

Combating Anti-Feminism and Building Strategies for Gender Equality

This study examines digital feminist media outlets in Brazil and France, exploring their strategies to promote gender equality and combat hate speech. Focusing on three outlets from each country, the research employs a multi-site ethnographic approach, including 63 in-depth interviews with content producers, support teams, and audiences. The findings reveal that discovering sexist and exclusionary sociopolitical structures often catalyzes engagement in feminist activism, with emotional responses—particularly anger and frustration—serving as primary drivers for action. Engagement in digital feminist spaces fosters collective exchange and creates connections extending beyond the digital sphere. The research highlights the complex interplay between digital platforms, feminist ideology, and grassroots activism in shaping contemporary gender equality movements, contributing to our understanding of how digital feminist media navigate online activism challenges while fostering community and driving social change.

Women’s Economic Empowerment Through Agriculture: Analyzing Barriers and Solutions

This paper focuses on the economic empowerment of women in the agricultural sector in Afghanistan. It aims to highlight the critical role that women play in agriculture and the necessity of addressing the barriers they face to enhance their participation and contributions to sustainable development. The methodology employed in this research involves a comprehensive analysis of the barriers hindering women's economic empowerment in agriculture. This includes examining social, economic, and legal challenges, as well as proposing actionable solutions to overcome these obstacles. The key findings of this study reveal that women's empowerment in agriculture is significantly impacted by factors such as limited access to education, financial resources, and decision-making processes. The results indicate that addressing these barriers can lead to improved economic outcomes for women and contribute to the overall development of the agricultural sector in Afghanistan. The implications of these findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions and support programs. The findings of this research are crucial for informing policy-making and planning efforts aimed at promoting gender equality in agriculture. By recognizing the importance of empowering women economically, stakeholders can implement strategies that foster inclusive growth and sustainable development in rural areas.

Do Export and Remittance Earnings Promote Gender Equality in Bangladesh? Evidence from an ARDL Experiment

Do Export and Remittance Earnings Promote Gender Equality in Bangladesh? Evidence from an ARDL Experiment

Gender Disparity in Authorship in High-Impact Obstetrics and Gynecology Journals over Twenty Years

ABSTRACT In the present study, we evaluate the proportion of women authorship in the field of obstetrics and gynecology research by assessing five prominent journals spanning 2001–2021, analyzing article types, study types, sub-specificities, and regions. Our outcomes demonstrate a significant increase in women’s authorship over time, highlighting progress in promoting gender equality. However, the rate of first and most senior women authors remains relatively unchanged. Notably, we determine a rise in the proportion of first authors who are women in experimental studies but not in studies that require surgical practice. This study sheds light on the challenges faced by women in scientific pursuits. Our study suggests that systemic barriers, prejudices, and inequalities likely continue to hinder gender equality in our discipline. By emphasising the continuance of this problem, we intend to encourage collective awareness and action. Together, we can transcend gender disparities and create a space where every voice, regardless of gender, can flourish. Through our study, we hope to inspire future generations and ignite change within the field of obstetrics and gynecology. By valuing and amplifying diverse perspectives, we can create a future where gender equality is the norm, enabling scientific discovery to reach new heights.