Power is one of the most crucial concepts in human evolution, enabling individuals to navigate life and influence their surroundings, from family to country. Hence, it’s paramount to use power wisely and ensure fair distribution. However, throughout history, power distribution has been marred by discrimination based on gender, caste and majority, leaving one group enjoying more privilege and control while others are left marginalised.
For instance, in a patriarchal society, men always enjoy more power than women and this inequality starts right from the beginning when boys and girls are treated differently. Sadly, even in the 21st century, there are still places where people are reluctant to have a girl child, let alone grant them power and opportunities.
Therefore, International Day of the Girl Child celebrated on October 11 each year that serves as a poignant reminder of the need to address and rectify these historical disparities in power distribution. This day, established by the United Nations (UN), underscores the importance of empowering girls and young women worldwide. It highlights the critical role that gender equality plays in achieving social, economic, and political progress.
This year, the International Day of the Girl Child will be celebrated with the theme ‘Invest in Girls’ Rights: Our Leadership, Our Well-being’. The theme envisions a world where girls actively influence policies, business practices, and research priorities. However, to make this vision a reality, we need to acknowledge the present global situation.
According to the UN:
· Almost 20% of girls fail to complete lower-secondary education, and nearly 40% means every four in 10 girls do not finish upper-secondary school throughout the world. And in certain regions, the numbers are even more dismal.
· In low-income countries, approximately 90% of adolescent girls and young women are not internet users whereas their male counterparts are twice as likely to be connected online.
· Worldwide, girls between the ages of five-14 dedicate an additional 160 million hours each day to unpaid caregiving and household tasks compared to boys of the same age. This unequal burden of unpaid work becomes more pronounced during adolescence, posing significant challenges to girls’ well-being.
· In India, there is a significant gender disparity in national political representation, where only 14.7% of parliamentary seats are occupied by women. Additionally, women’s representation in managerial roles is quite low, standing at just 15.9%.
The above concerning statistics highlight the imperative need for both society and governments to take further actions towards achieving women’s empowerment. In addition to this, it’s essential that women themselves stand as the steadfast foundation of this movement.
Actionable ways how women can take the lead in shaping change
· Education and Awareness: By actively pursuing education and raising awareness about gender equality and women’s rights, women can empower themselves and others to challenge discriminatory norms.
· Economic Empowerment: Women can excel in diverse fields and industries, breaking glass ceilings and demonstrating their economic value. Entrepreneurship and leadership roles in business can pave the way for greater influence.
· Advocacy and Activism: Active participation in advocacy groups, grassroots movements, and organisations that champion women’s rights can drive change at local, national, and international levels.
· Mentorship and Support: Offering mentorship and support to younger generations of women can empower them with guidance and encouragement to pursue their goals.
· Political Engagement: Running for political office or actively participating in politics can shape policies and legislation that promote gender equality and women’s rights.
· Media and Arts: Women can use their creative talents in media, arts, and culture to challenge stereotypes and portray strong, empowered female characters and narratives.
· Technology and Innovation: Pursuing careers in STEM fields and contributing to technological innovations can help women influence and shape the future in significant ways.
· Community Building: Creating and participating in women’s networks, forums, and community organisations can provide a platform for sharing experiences and supporting one another.
· Family and Education: Raising children with values of gender equality and teaching them to respect diversity can create a more inclusive future.
· Global Collaboration: Engaging in international organisations and initiatives can contribute to global efforts to advance women’s rights and gender equality.
· Legal Advocacy: Pursuing careers in law and working as advocates for women’s rights can lead to the enforcement of existing laws and the creation of new ones to protect women.
· Self-Care and Wellness: Prioritising self-care and mental health can help women maintain resilience and energy for their advocacy efforts.
· Financial Literacy: Promoting financial literacy among women can help them achieve financial independence and secure their future.
· Promoting Inclusivity: Encouraging inclusivity and diversity in all aspects of society can create a more equitable and just world for all.
· Leading by Example: Being role models for others by demonstrating confidence, resilience, and leadership qualities can inspire other women to follow suit.
It is crucial to understand that the journey towards achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment is an ongoing effort that requires the collective commitment of society, governments, and women themselves. Moreover, every day, girls are fearlessly challenging boundaries and working towards a safer, healthier and more prosperous world.
Expressing her thoughts on the occasion, Kalash Kaushal, Founder, Girl Up Aashayein, (a club that caters to spread awareness about human rights and women’s upliftment) says, “This day marks a very important reminder for the world. It’s not just about protecting women or giving them opportunities. I personally feel it’s more about sensitising everyone about their rights, be it men or women. It is very important to establish equality in our country by enforcing laws that monitor it. I really look forward to contributing to this reform in any way possible.” The young social activist conducts year-round events and activities to educate and encourage women. She is an alumna of Apeejay School, Pitampura.
Therefore, by acknowledging the existing disparities, advocating for change, and actively participating in various spheres, women can lead the way in shaping a more equitable and inclusive 21st century, where the power is shared by all, regardless of gender and where opportunities and rights are truly universal. The path to gender equality may be challenging, but it is illuminated by the unwavering spirit of girls and women determined to create a better world for themselves and future generations.