Empowering women is essential to the health and social development of countries. Women are a key contributor to the economy and producers of food. Throughout history, the central role of women in society has ensured the stability, progress, and long-term development of nations. Women remain a largely underutilized source of talent and labor. The more educated a woman is, the more she is likely to find economic opportunities. The empowerment of women is a necessity for the development of society. Women’s economic empowerment is critical in achieving gender equality. It requires that decision-making and access to resources are not constrained so women and men both equally participate in a productive life.
Empowering women to take important decisions for their personal development is called women empowerment. It is to make the women independent in all aspects of life, be it mind, thoughts, and making the right decision without considering social restrictions. Empowering women is to bring equality in social order in which men and women are equal in both areas. For a country, to have a bright future, society, and family to flourish, women are essential. In ancient ages, women weren’t treated the same way men were. So, for a country, women’s development means giving them equal status as men.
Women empowerment is empowering women to make their own decisions for their personal development as well as social development. Empowerment of women would mean encouraging women to be self-reliant, independent, have self-esteem, generate confidence to face any difficult situation, and incite active participation in various socio-political development endeavors. In ancient times, women were treated very badly by family and society. They were not given education and were only restricted to household tasks. They were completely oblivious of their development rights. Women make up half of the country, so to make the country, women empowerment is very necessary. There are various ways in how one can empower women. The individuals and governments must both come together to make it happen. Education for girls must be made compulsory so that women can become literate to make life better for themselves. Women must be given equal opportunities in every field, irrespective of gender. Moreover, they must also be given equal pay.
We can also empower women by eliminating early marriages which is a common practice in villages. Various programs must be conducted where they can be given the ability to defend themselves in case they face financial crises. Most importantly, the shame of divorce and abuse must be thrown out the window. Many women stay in abusive relationships because of the fear of society. Parents must teach their daughters that it is OK to come home from divorces rather than in a coffin.
Women empowerment in the truest sense will only be achieved when there is an attitudinal change in society with regards to the women-folk, treating them with proper respect, dignity, fairness equality.
Contributed by:
Irum Muzamil