Women and Family

The issue of gender has often been a subject of debate and argument in society. Some are of the opinion that if the economy progresses, women will eventually become a part of it and their contribution to the decision making process will increase. On the other hand, some feel years of prejudice and discrimination against women has to be made up by making laws and rules which guarantee their involvement in society. However, it is of my opinion that we need a balance of both the views, wherein women are guaranteed an important role in society and at the same time, economic progress benefits the women and they are a part of it.
A successful society, according to me, is one which involves everyone residing in it while it makes progress; regardless of class, creed, colour, race, sex or age. It is difficult to include everyone, but even if a society makes an honest effort to do so, it will result in more positive development. Any balanced society consists of different kinds of people with different views. If only a certain part of the society is affecting the decision making process, it may alienate the others and this causes unhealthy, irregular development.
When we consider the case of women in society and history, it can be observed that their role has been fluctuating. They have been adored and worshipped as Goddesses, queens, administrators, freedom fighters and artists. They have also being discriminated against as witches, prostitutes and seen as a burden to society. The hunger of men to dominate and control society has often resulted in some of the most shocking prejudice against women. Religion and social norms often forced women to lead a life which was derogatory and more like a commodity, than a part of the society. They were subjected to minimal social life and were chained to their houses, made servants to their families. The status of women has not changed much in many African and Asian countries, but it is only due to lack of education, international exposure and economic development. Even if the western world has made progress in recent past, they were the ones who discriminated the most against women. We hear even to this day, how women are being kept as slaves and exposed to domestic violence in many developed economies.
The solution of this problem involves a systematic procedure, whereby each member of society is educated fairly and without discrimination. Laws are made to ensure that any decision making process involves an equal participation by women. These laws should be strictly implemented. This process may take decades, but once we have reached a balance and harmony in gender-equality, we will be able to develop and function better. Many organisations are working hard to attain gender equality in society. Unless the citizens themselves do not make an effort in bringing out a change, there will be no improvement in present condition. The mentality that women are supposed to be in houses and take care of family must be changed. Women should choose for themselves which life they prefer and the interests they want to pursue.
Women have an equal right to study, think, work and contribute to the society, as men do. It is a very surprising that even though we have made technological advancement and invented many things, an issue like gender equality still haunts us. If the present system is not working, it is essential that changes be made to include women. It has to start at lowest level like schools and households and end at the highest levels like Parliaments and important political offices.