Society must step up to drive change

Gender based violence is a problem of pandemic proportions and generally begins at conception. Prenatal gender selection often results in deaths in some countries, with the termination of pregnancies when the foetus is identified as female. Mexico has received international attention for a high rate of murders and the disappearance of young women. Femicides — the killing of women — in Guatemala have risen at an alarming rate. Dowry deaths, honour killings, female genital mutilation, child marriages, and sexual abuse continue to haunt the human race. Gender based violence or threats of such acts are prevalent, especially in patriarchal societies, as they signify inequality.

However, gender equality is achievable, as it is about disruption, where men take full responsibility, working side by side with the opposite gender, to redress the dynamics that hinder progress. They must actively participate in breaking social norms and gender stereotypes that limit opportunities for women and restrict men to certain roles. Men’s decisions and behaviours are profoundly shaped by expectations related to masculinity. Systematic change is important. When men start to question and challenge power dynamics through their actions/words, they can transform social norms, and gender stereotypes that perpetuate discrimination. Men need to play an effective and meaningful role in promoting women’s full leadership and participation in the economy. They must denounce institutions that are not gender balanced and lack female representation. A man’s duty lies in targeting the most dehumanising form of discrimination and inequality, which is violence against women, thereby creating a safe haven for them to flourish. From Ms Shivani Singh Freelance writer, based in Dubai