The Role of Social Organizations in the development of Gender based Identities

 

The Role of Social Organizations in the development of Gender based Identities 

 

It is true that both men and women are biological structures, but their family, social, economic and political role is determined by 'gender', which is developed under the influence of social norms and social control of various social organizations. 

Gender, the most silent component of identity identity, tells us the dramatic role of defining the boundaries of male and female and how we view the world. 

It not only explains the difference between the sexes but also defines its relation to power at the social, political and economic level. 

In the context of women, Simone de Beauvoir had said that 'women are not made, but are made'. Analyzing this construction work of women in the society and the 'inequality' they face, we find one of its major factors - 'the concept of gender'.

 

Various social organizations play an important role in the development of gender-based identity. 

Many organizations at the national and international level have played an important role in promoting the rights of women in the society. 

Work towards individual human rights is being done by many United Nations organizations including UNICEF, UNDP, and UNFPA. 

UNDP focuses on gender equality, recognizing the empowerment of women not only as a human right, but also as a key factor in achieving the Millennium Development Goals and sustainable development. 

 

Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, National Mission for Empowerment of Women, And National Human Rights Commission etc. are working towards empowerment at the national level. 

Various social organizations through their strategies bring forth the challenges created by the traditional determinants of women's status and empowerment and are making necessary efforts to improve the situation.

For example, under the National Women's Empowerment Policy (2001), the following goals were set to embody the progress, development and empowerment of women -

 

1. To create an environment through positive economic and social relationships for the full development of women, so that they can realize their potential.

2. Legal and practical use of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by women in political, economic, social, cultural and civil fields, equal to men.

3. Equal opportunities for participation and decision making by women in social, political and economic life.

 

4. Access to health care, quality education at all levels, career and vocational guidance, equal opportunities in employment, equal pay, occupational health and safety, social security and government offices, etc.

5. Strengthening the legal system aimed at eradicating all forms of discrimination against women.

6. To bring about change in social perceptions and community attitudes through active participation and partnership of both men and women.

 

7. Implementing a gender perspective in the development process.

8. Elimination of any form of discrimination against women and girls, and

9. Building and strengthening partnerships with civil society, especially women's organizations.

 

The National Commission for Women, a statutory body assisted by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, has been mandated, to safeguard the constitutional and legal interests of women, suggest remedial legal measures, facilitate grievance redressal and empower women. It has the right to advise the government on all policy issues affecting it.