Women’s Rights – A Non-Negotiable Human Right

In the years since the first lady’s speech, women have come a long way in fighting for their rights. The movement has shifted from being a fringe cause to a mainstream issue. Today, women’s rights are considered “non-negotiable” as a human right that should be prioritized by decent people everywhere, because it will ultimately benefit everyone.

The rights of women are being met in many ways across the world, but more work needs to be done. For example, women in developing countries are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS, and many are robbed of a healthy life due to unplanned pregnancies and child marriage. Women also face economic inequalities, including paying less than men for the same work, being restricted by laws to work in certain industries, and not having access to land ownership or inheritance. Many women are also forced to spend twice as much time on domestic work, which undermines their ability to earn a living. Harmful patriarchal traditions, like female genital mutilation and child marriage, rob women of their dignity.

When asked about the main obstacle to equal rights, 77% of Americans say that sexual harassment is a major barrier. Two-thirds say that differences in the expectations society holds for women and men are a major obstacle as well, while others cite lack of opportunity to work, family responsibilities, gender discrimination, or not having enough women in leadership positions.

Despite the challenges, most people believe that gender equality will eventually be achieved in their country. More than seven-in-ten in the Netherlands, India, and Mexico believe it will happen, while majorities in most Central and Eastern European nations and Russia think it will happen as well. And in the United States, 75% say that they are confident that women and men will have equal rights eventually.

When looking at the regional rankings, Sub-Saharan Africa improved the most in terms of legal rights for women, with five economies making significant progress. In particular, Gabon banned domestic violence, passed legislation against gender discrimination in the workplace, and lifted a law that required married women to obey their husbands. While the region still has room for improvement, it is encouraging that many governments are recognizing the value of empowering women and ensuring their full participation in society.