The manifold disadvantages and discrimination continue to plague rural women in many parts of the world. Economic inequalities between men and women manifest themselves, not only in terms of wages earned but also in terms of freedom and liberation. It was distressing that a culture of impunity still existed. Unjust perceptions created about women, especially in rural vicinities, have their roots engraved- restricting a plethora of opportunities offered to them eventually leading to failure of overall growth and development.
Necessarily, with change in times peoples’ perspectives too must change- it is imminent.
Men and women must be given the desired amount of recognition, admiration, and validation in equal quantities.
Women are greatly under-represented in top income groups – they make up much less than 50% across each of the countries. Within the top 1%, women account for around 20% and there is surprisingly little variation across countries. Rural women comprise a quarter of the world’s population. Women also make up 41 percent of the world’s agricultural labor force, a ratio which rises to 49 percent for low-income countries.
Women in rural areas face constraints in engaging in economic activities. Rural women are less likely to be wage earners, and when they are, they earn less than men. Rural women are often concentrated in low-skilled, low-productivity, and low or unpaid jobs with long working hours, poor working conditions, and limited social protection.
Thus we need to bridge the gap between the two genders in terms of financial and professional independence- to aid make the world a better place for future generations and eventually eradicate this obstacle.
Written by Anantya Daga