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Essay on Role of Women in Society | Role of Women in Society Essay for Students and Children in English

March 13, 2023 by Prasanna

Essay on Role of Women in Society: Women are equally important in society as men are. They are the backbone for a progressing nation. Demographically, half a population of the country constitutes women, and they deserve equal importance and rights in society.

From keeping the home safe and clean to portraying excellent outcomes in the workplace, a woman can do it all. Their capabilities must not be underestimated based on their gender, and they should be given equal opportunity to display their talents. It is essential for us to know the status of women in our society, and therefore, we have compiled some extended, short, and ten lines essay on the role of women in society.

You can read more  Essay Writing  about articles, events, people, sports, technology many more.

Long and Short Essays on Role of Women in Society for Students and Kids in English

Given below is a Role of Women in Society essay of 400-500 words and is suitable for the students of standards 7, 8, 9, and 10 and a short piece of nearly 100-150 words for the students of standard 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

Long Essay on Role of Women in Society 500 words in English

In the middle age, people had only one notion about the woman; that is, they were born to control the household chores and manage the children. But in today’s world, women empowerment has taken place which has opened new doors for the women to thrive and shine.

In the rural regions, the girls have started going to school, which is positively affecting the literacy rate in India and is taking the country in the forward direction. Campaigns are held all over the country to spread awareness about woman literacy.

In addition to literacy, personal health and hygiene are other issues that woman staying in the rural region have very less idea about. Women hold awareness programmes and free sanitary napkins are distributed amongst them. Such a programme is organised to remove a general taboo about the menstrual cycle.

Besides managing household works, women are also engaging themselves in the service sector like banks, hospitals, airlines, schools and every other possible work field as well as they have started showing interest in setting up their own business. Not to mention, they are providing excellent outcomes in their respective areas. In the world of sports, women have set up milestones for men to achieve.

Personalities like PV Sindhu and Saina Nehwal are idols. We must not limit or try to limit the role of women in society to be a homemaker or a mother because they are capable of doing so much more. The women who are homemakers are an essential member of the family who is responsible for managing the home, cooking, cleaning, doing the dishes, taking care of the elders and the kids.

Still, the saddest part is at times their efforts are overlooked, and they are never praised for the things they do. People assume these works as their duties and consider them to be a free servant. This outlook needs to change, and people should understand that she might even need some help in doing the works and she is not free labour, whatever she does is out of love and love only.

To conclude, women should be encouraged to do something out of the household works, and if they already want to work in offices to earn for themselves, no one should stop them. They are an individual identity who have full freedom of doing anything that they think is the best for them.

Short Essay on Role of Women in Society 150 words in English

In the modern world, women are progressing. The social and economic status of the women have soared to height, and they are no longer confined within the boundaries of the four walls. They are playing the roles of a working woman, an efficient homemaker, and a proud mother and daughter.

Earlier women were only associated with taking care of the household and babies. But nowadays, they are engaging in work fields to explore their inner talents and also to become independent and earn for themselves. They are one of the main reason behind the progress of the nation who makes our daily lives easy and the country proud.

10 Lines on Essay on Role of Women in Society in English

  • A woman should be given equal opportunities economically and socially.
  • They must be respected and never underestimated on the ground that they are women.
  • Schooling should be made available for the girls in the rural area.
  • Awareness must be spread on the topic of sanitary health and hygiene.
  • Their choice and perspective must be looked upon on as they are great leaders.
  • During the middle ages, the women’s position in the society became inferior as compared to men, and the condition of the women deteriorated.
  • The women should be given freedom in whatever she does and should not be confined within four walls of the house.
  • Women should be headstrong and believe in them. They must voice their option without any fear.
  • People should start believing that motherhood is an option and the decision solely depends on a woman.
  • We should remember the contribution of woman leaders and have a positive attitude towards woman controlling the government.

Role of Women in Society

FAQ’s on Essay on Role of Women in Society

Question 1. Is there any importance of women’s perspective?

Answer: A woman does not only bring competition into the work field but also help in the collaboration of ideas and execute teamwork correctly. They help in bringing a perspective that values an open economy, modern, and social system.

Question 2. Name a few roles a woman plays in society and the family?

Answer: Some of the roles played by a woman in daily lives are as follows: a supportive daughter, wife, mother, an extraordinary co-worker who can manage a team very well, and many more. A woman has a versatile nature and is capable of doing everything a man can.

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Essay on Role of Women in Society

Students are often asked to write an essay on Role of Women in Society in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Role of Women in Society

Introduction.

Women play a vital role in society. They are not only homemakers but also contributors to economic, social, and political development.

Economic Role

Women contribute to the economy, both in paid and unpaid work. They manage households and also participate in workforce, boosting the country’s economic growth.

Social Role

Women are the backbone of society. They shape and nurture the future generations, and play a pivotal role in societal harmony.

Political Role

Women in politics ensure representation of diverse perspectives. They help in making balanced and inclusive decisions.

In conclusion, women are integral to the progression of society. Their roles are diverse and crucial.

250 Words Essay on Role of Women in Society

The role of women in society has been shifting significantly over the centuries, from a traditional focus on nurturing roles to a modern emphasis on participation in all spheres of life. This transformation has been driven by socio-economic changes, advancements in education, and the relentless fight for gender equality.

Economic Contributions

In the economic sphere, women have transcended the boundaries of domesticity to become key contributors. They are now CEOs, entrepreneurs, and professionals, driving economic growth and innovation. Their economic independence has shifted societal perceptions, emphasizing their capabilities beyond traditional roles.

Social and Political Influence

Socially, women have become vocal advocates for societal issues, championing causes such as environmental conservation, education, and health. Their empathetic and holistic approach to problem-solving has led to significant societal advancements. Politically, women’s representation has increased, influencing policy-making and contributing to a more balanced perspective in governance.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite these strides, challenges persist. Gender disparities in pay and representation, societal expectations, and gender-based violence are issues that women continue to grapple with. However, the future holds promise. As society continues to evolve, the role of women is expected to expand further, with increased opportunities for leadership and influence.

In conclusion, the role of women in society has evolved from traditional nurturing roles to active participation in economic, social, and political spheres. While challenges persist, the future holds promise for further expansion of women’s roles, contributing to a more balanced and equitable society.

500 Words Essay on Role of Women in Society

Historical perspective.

Historically, women were considered inferior to men and their primary roles were confined to childbearing and managing household chores. However, with the advent of industrialization and modernization, women began to step out of their homes to contribute to the family income. This shift was the first step towards the recognition of women as significant contributors to society.

In the current era, women have emerged as an essential part of the global economy. From being entrepreneurs and CEOs of multinational companies to working in various sectors such as technology, healthcare, and education, women have proven their mettle. They are not only contributing to the economy but are also driving growth and innovation.

Women’s participation in politics has increased significantly over the years. They are now occupying key positions in governments and international organizations. Their perspectives and leadership styles often bring a different approach to governance, emphasizing cooperation, inclusivity, and social welfare.

Challenges and the Way Forward

Despite these advancements, women still face numerous challenges such as gender-based violence, wage discrimination, and underrepresentation in leadership positions. Addressing these issues requires collective action and systemic changes. Education plays a pivotal role in this, as it not only empowers women but also fosters a society that values gender equality.

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How has the role of women changed over the last 50 years?

Women's representation in Congress and participation in the workforce has grown, but disparities still exist at home and elsewhere.

Updated on Thu, August 17, 2023 by the USAFacts Team

Societal structures change from generation to generation, leading to changes in the roles women play in politics and the workforce, and childrearing. But how has women's participation in different sectors of American society changed over the last 50 years?

Are more women serving in Congress?

In the past four decades, women’s representation in Congress has increased substantially. Women now make up a quarter of members of Congress, which is more than double the number who served in the 106th Congress of 1999 to 2001.

Women held 150 seats in the 117th Congress, which spanned January 3, 2021, to January 3, 2023, making up about 25% of Congress. Even though women’s participation in Congress is up 56% from a decade prior, to reach representation proportional with the population, that number would need to double.

Read more about women’s participation in Congress.

Has women’s participation in the workforce increased?

Women’s labor force participation rate grew from 34% in 1950 to 60% in 2000, and is expected to 0.7% per year through 2050. This figure, however, varies among different demographic groups.

Despite Congress passing the Equal Pay Act in 1963, a wage gap remains. In 2020, women earned 82 cents for every dollar earned by men, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . Even with educational advancements and entry into higher-paying fields, women tend to be more represented in lower-paying sectors.

For instance, 77% of public elementary and secondary school teachers were women in the 2020–2021 school year.

Even though 95% of elementary, middle and high school teachers have a bachelor’s degree or higher, their pay was lower than that of their similarly educated peers. Average earnings were $53,800 for elementary and middle school teachers, and $57,840 for high school teachers. To compare, biological scientists earn $69,880, urban and regional planners earn $79,790, and statisticians earn $96,320.

Read about women’s income and teacher salary .

How do women balance work and childcare?

Data indicates that mothers are four times more likely than fathers to miss work due to childcare , a trend that has continued even as women’s increasing participation in the workforce. Issues such as paid parental leave complicate this picture. Although the Family and Medical Leave Act mandates a 12-week parental leave for many employees, it does not require that this leave be paid. Recent data shows that 89% of workers had access only to unpaid family and medical leave .

Read more about how men and women use time differently .

Women’s roles in the United States— in political arenas, the workforce, and at home—have experienced significant shifts over the decades. As women’s representation in Congress has grown, so has their participation in the labor force. But, while some disparities shrink, others persist. Understanding the data behind these trends can add context to gender roles and inform debate and policy on future equity initiatives.

There’s a lot more where this came from: learn more in this interview between USAFacts’ Sasha Anderson and News Not Noise’s Jessica Yellin. Then see the differences in how men and women spend their time differently, and get the latest data by signing up for our newsletter .

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The Role of Women in Society

In the 21st century, women have undoubtedly achieved many advances regarding their role in society, at least in western countries. However, even there they may still experience difficulties. Women may believe that they have to behave like men to succeed, and avoid the responsibilities of having children in order to have a flourishing career. They have all the legal rights of men, and in theory have equal access to employment opportunities – yet in practice this may be hard to enforce.

In some ways, the role of women is still a traditional one. Many countries are still highly patriarchal, expecting women to play a submissive and supportive role, and perhaps even denying them equal legal rights to men. Even in progressive western countries, women often still bear the burden of responsibility for childcare, care of elderly relatives, and domestic tasks. Although the outlook is changing, certain professions are still seen as either male or female, and women experience difficulties entering traditionally male occupations such as science or engineering.

Changes are slow to occur, but they are happening. In the 2017 parliamentary elections in the UK, almost a third of MPs elected were women, the highest number to date. In the US, women hold only around 20% of seats in the Senate, Congress, and House of Representatives. It is important for these numbers to increase, so that women are fairly represented at the highest levels. Women can be equally capable as men, and if they enter more positions of power then not only will they be able to work to improve the situation of other women, but it will send a message that they should be regarded as equals. This creates a ‘trickle-down’ effect throughout society; if we see women in roles of importance, then other women (and men) begin to understand that females are not only deserving of equal opportunities, but that they are every bit as capable as their male counterparts.

Since we still have issues regarding equal opportunities in more liberal western societies in 2017, it can only be assumed that changes in more patriarchal societies will be much slower to occur. Yet again, there we see signs that changes may occur over time. Many countries have grass roots organisations working to improve the situation for women and girls, ensuring that they have equal access to education and to protect their rights. Even in the most patriarchal society of all, Saudi Arabia, there have recently been small improvements in the ‘guardian system’, which requires women to have the permission of a male relative to access many services such as healthcare, education and obtaining a passport. A member of the Saudi royal family has even stated that he believes one day women will be permitted to drive, and that they will indeed play a greater role in society. This is acknowledging the great potential that women have, and the contribution that they can bring to the country and its economy – something that is as yet untapped.

In conclusion, we must observe that the responsibility for changing the role of women to a more equal one is in many ways the responsibility of men. Returning to the example of Saudi Arabia, changes will only occur if men in power and in society agree to it. This is true to some extent everywhere. But women must keep up the pressure worldwide to demand their rights, and demonstrate that they are every bit as capable as men. It is perhaps unfortunate that they must prove themselves, but it is a good way of showing that they are deserving.

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Role of Women in Society Essay

Kunika Khuble

Updated December 18, 2023

Introduction to the Role of Women in Society

A Daughter, Sister, Granddaughter, Wife, Mother, Mother-in-law, Daughter-in-law, Aunt, and Grandmother – not a superhero, but a remarkable woman.

A woman is a multifaceted bundle of strength, resilience, compassion, and wisdom, weaving together the threads of countless roles and responsibilities in the tapestry of life. From a daughter’s nurturing warmth to a grandmother’s guiding support, she intricately weaves various facets of life together. Her journey traverses through the corridors of sisterhood, daughterhood, and the responsibilities of a wife, mother, and beyond. In this dynamic mosaic of identities and responsibilities, the significance of a woman’s presence resonates deeply, shaping families, communities, and the very essence of society itself. Unveiling the layers of her myriad roles is to discover the remarkable nature of a woman, an indispensable force driving the narratives of our existence.

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Role of Women in Society Essay

Women’s Role in Ancient Societies

The annals of history unveil a diverse panorama of ancient civilizations, each with its nuanced tapestry of social norms and gender dynamics. In examining the role of women in these bygone eras, we find that their contributions were both profound and complex.

  • Economic Contributions: In agrarian societies, women often played integral roles in sustaining the economic fabric of their communities. From tending to crops in Mesopotamia to managing households in Ancient Egypt, their labor was indispensable. However, recognizing their contributions didn’t always translate into equitable status.
  • Cultural and Religious Significance: Ancient mythologies and religious texts frequently portrayed women as bearers of divine qualities. Goddesses like Isis in Egypt or Athena in Greece embodied wisdom, fertility, and protection. Despite such symbolic reverence, mortal women often faced societal restrictions.
  • Educational Constraints: Education in many ancient societies was reserved for the elite. While exceptions like the educated women of ancient Athens existed, the majority faced academic constraints, limiting their intellectual and philosophical contributions.
  • Matrilineal Societies: Some ancient cultures, like the Minoans, displayed matrilineal structures, where descent and inheritance were traced through the maternal line. In these societies, women held unique positions of authority and power, challenging the prevailing patriarchal norms.
  • Challenges and Restrictions: Despite these nuanced roles, it’s crucial to recognize the prevalent challenges. The ancient world was rife with societal expectations, limiting women’s agency in public life. Laws and customs often restricted their legal rights and participation in decision-making processes.

Education acts as a powerful tool in shaping the lives of women. It encompasses formal schooling and includes access to information, knowledge, and skills necessary for personal growth and societal contribution.

Empowerment through Knowledge

  • Education provides women with the necessary skills to navigate various aspects of life, from making informed health decisions to engaging in economic activities.
  • It helps women develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities, helping them to advocate for themselves and their communities.

Economic Empowerment

  • Educated women are more likely to find employment opportunities, thus contributing to their economic independence.
  • Higher levels of education frequently correspond with improved earning capacity, which can substantially impact a woman’s financial stability and decision-making power within the home.

Breaking Societal Barriers

  • Education challenges traditional gender norms by empowering women to defy societal limitations and pursue careers and roles previously reserved for men.
  • It helps combat stereotypes and discrimination by showcasing women’s capabilities and achievements in various fields.

Health and Well-being

  • Women who are educated have better health outcomes for themselves and their families.
  • They are more likely to understand healthcare information, seek medical attention, and make healthier lifestyle choices.

Economic empowerment refers to women’s ability to control economic resources, financial decision-making, and access to opportunities for economic advancement.

Financial Independence

  • Economic empowerment gives women financial autonomy, reducing their dependency on others and allowing them to choose based on their preferences.
  • It gives them a sense of agency and self-worth, contributing to their well-being.

Entrepreneurship and Employment

  • Empowered women are more likely to engage in entrepreneurial activities, creating job opportunities for themselves and others in their communities.
  • Access to economic resources and employment opportunities allows women to contribute significantly to economic growth and development.

Participation in Decision-making

  • Economic empowerment often translates into greater participation in household and community decision-making processes.
  • Women with economic resources are better positioned to voice their opinions and influence decisions affecting their lives and families.

Social Empowerment

  • Economic empowerment often leads to social empowerment, increasing a woman’s status within her community and fostering her participation in social and political spheres.

Women in the Workplace

1. progress in workforce participation.

  • Historical Shift: The latter half of the 20th century witnessed a significant shift in the participation of women in the workforce. Once confined to limited roles, women began to enter various professions, challenging stereotypes and contributing to economic growth.
  • Professional Diversity: Women have excelled in diverse fields, from science and technology to business, politics, and the arts. Their contributions have become integral to the functioning of modern economies.  

2. Gender Wage Gap

  • Persistent Disparities: Despite advancements, the gender wage gap remains a glaring issue. On average, women continue to earn less than men for equivalent work, reflecting deep-rooted systemic inequalities.
  • Intersectionality and Wage Gap: The wage gap is often exacerbated by intersectionality, with women from marginalized groups facing even wider disparities.  

3. Barriers to Career Advancement

  • Glass Ceiling: The metaphorical glass ceiling impedes women’s advancement to leadership. Structural and cultural barriers limit their access to executive roles, board memberships, and other high-ranking positions.
  • Implicit Bias: Implicit biases and gender stereotypes persist in the workplace, affecting hiring decisions, performance evaluations, and opportunities for advancement.

4. Work-Life Balance and Caregiving

  • Dual Responsibilities: Women often struggle to balance professional careers with caregiving responsibilities. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is made more difficult by societal expectations and established gender roles.
  • Impact on Career Trajectory: Balancing work and caregiving responsibilities can impact career trajectories, leading to career interruptions, reduced opportunities for advancement, and potential wage gaps.

5. Combatting Harassment and Discrimination

  • MeToo Movement: The #MeToo movement has shed light on workplace harassment and discrimination, sparking conversations and driving organizations to reassess their policies and practices.
  • Need for Inclusive Policies: To create inclusive and equitable workplace environments, comprehensive policies that address harassment and discrimination, as well as develop a culture of respect and diversity, are required.

6. Initiatives for Gender Diversity

  • Diversity and Inclusion Programs: To encourage gender equality in the workplace, many businesses have created diversity and inclusion programs. These efforts seek to foster professional conditions in which women can succeed.
  • Mentorship and Sponsorship: Mentorship and sponsorship programs can support women’s career development by providing guidance, opportunities, and advocacy.

7. Remote Work and Flexibility

  • Impact of Remote Work: The rise of remote work, accelerated by global events, has provided new opportunities for flexibility. This shift can potentially alleviate some challenges associated with work-life balance for women.
  • Addressing Digital Gender Divides: However, it’s crucial to address potential digital gender divides and ensure that remote work policies are equitable for all employees.

Political Participation

1. progress in representation.

  • Historical Context: Women’s participation in politics has undergone a remarkable evolution. Over the years, there has been an increase in the representation of women in political offices worldwide.
  • Milestones: Landmark moments, such as the suffrage movements and the election of the first female heads of state, have paved the way for greater political involvement by women.

2. Representation in Legislative Bodies

  • Global Trends: While progress varies across regions, there has been a gradual increase in the representation of women in legislative bodies, including parliaments and congresses.
  • Challenges Persist: However, women are still underrepresented in many political spheres, and disparities persist in access to decision-making roles.

3. Barriers to Political Participation

  • Structural Barriers: Political systems may have inherent barriers, such as electoral systems favoring incumbents or political parties less inclined to nominate female candidates.
  • Cultural and Societal Norms: Deep-seated societal norms and gender stereotypes can discourage women from pursuing political careers, perpetuating a lack of representation.

4. Intersectionality and Representation

  • Diversity and Intersectionality: The importance of diverse representation, considering factors like race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and socio-economic status alongside gender, is increasingly recognized as essential for inclusive political landscapes.
  • Challenges Faced by Marginalized Groups: Women from marginalized communities often face compounded challenges, necessitating tailored approaches to ensure their political representation.

5. Leadership and Advocacy

  • Women in Leadership Roles: Despite challenges, women have risen to prominent political leadership positions, serving as heads of state, ministers, and influential policymakers, bringing diverse perspectives to governance.
  • Advocacy and Grassroots Movements: Grassroots movements led by women have been pivotal in advocating for policy changes and social justice and amplifying women’s voices in political discourse.

6. Global Initiatives for Gender Equality

  • International Efforts: Various international organizations and initiatives, like the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), include targets for achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment in political spheres.
  • Quotas and Affirmative Action: Some countries have implemented quotas or affirmative action measures to increase women’s representation in politics, aiming to address the imbalance in political participation.

7. Challenges and Future Prospects

  • Continued Struggles: Despite progress, persistent challenges, including stereotypes, institutional barriers, and cultural norms, underscore the ongoing struggle for equitable representation.
  • The Need for Continued Advocacy: Sustained efforts in advocating for policies that promote gender equality, dismantling barriers, and encouraging women’s political engagement are essential for the future of inclusive governance.

Social and Cultural Influences

1. historical context.

  • Traditional Gender Roles: Throughout history, societies have assigned specific roles to men and women based on perceived notions of gender. These roles often confined women to domestic spheres, while men were expected to take on public and economic responsibilities.
  • Evolution of Norms: Over time, societal norms and expectations regarding gender roles have evolved, influenced by factors such as industrialization, education, and social movements advocating for women’s rights.

2. Cultural Norms and Expectations

  • Cultural Diversity: Different cultures shape expectations for women’s behavior, appearance, and life choices. Cultural norms can influence everything from career choices to family structures.
  • Impact on Autonomy: Societal expectations may limit women’s autonomy, pressuring them to conform to predefined roles. This can affect their education, career, marriage, and motherhood decisions.

3. Impact of Religion

  • Diverse Religious Perspectives: Religious beliefs often play a significant role in shaping attitudes towards women. Interpretations of religious texts and traditions vary, impacting women’s rights and social standing.
  • Religious Conservatism: In some cases, religious conservatism may reinforce traditional gender roles and limit women’s access to education, employment, and leadership positions.

4. Media and Popular Culture

  • Representation in Media: Media portrayal of women can reinforce or challenge societal norms. Representation in movies, television, and advertising can shape perceptions of beauty, success, and acceptable behavior.
  • Influence on Body Image: The Media’s emphasis on specific beauty standards can contribute to body image issues, affecting women’s self-esteem and influencing lifestyle choices.

5. Family and Community Dynamics

  • Role of Family: Family structures and dynamics shape women’s experiences. Supportive families can provide a foundation for women’s empowerment, while restrictive environments may limit opportunities.
  • Community Expectations: Community expectations and collective values can influence women’s choices and behavior. Breaking away from traditional expectations may lead to social scrutiny or ostracization.

6. Changing Social Movements

  • Feminist Movements: Feminist movements have played a crucial role in challenging and reshaping societal norms. They advocate for women’s rights, equality, and the dismantling of systemic barriers.
  • Intersectionality: Contemporary discussions often emphasize intersectionality, recognizing that women’s experiences are shaped by the intersection of gender with other social factors such as race, class, and sexual orientation.

Challenges and Barriers Faced by Women

1. economic disparities.

Women continue to confront substantial economic challenges, with the gender wage gap persisting as a stark manifestation of inequality. Despite advancements, women, on average, earn less than their male counterparts for similar work. The roots of this disparity are deeply embedded in systemic issues, including occupational segregation, biased hiring practices, and the undervaluing of industries traditionally dominated by women. These economic challenges are compounded for women from marginalized communities, creating a cycle of financial inequality that extends across generations.

2. Glass Ceiling and Career Advancement

The metaphorical glass ceiling remains a formidable barrier to women’s career advancement. Structural and cultural impediments limit women’s access to executive roles, board memberships, and leadership positions. Implicit biases within organizational structures and the persistence of gender stereotypes contribute to a workplace culture that hinders the professional growth of women. Addressing the glass ceiling necessitates dismantling discriminatory practices and fostering inclusive environments that value and promote the diverse talents and perspectives women bring to the workplace.

3. Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence is a common and highly problematic issue for women all across the world. Domestic violence, sexual harassment, and human trafficking can cause physical, emotional, and psychological harm to women. These forms of abuse not only violate individual rights but also foster an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, limiting women’s capacity to live productive lives. The fight against gender-based violence requires comprehensive legal frameworks, societal awareness, and a cultural shift to challenge ingrained notions that perpetuate such behaviors.

4. Underrepresentation in Leadership

The lack of women in leadership positions in different fields still poses a major obstacle to attaining gender parity. Often, women’s perspectives are disregarded during decision-making, leading to policies and practices failing to adequately address the needs and opinions of diverse communities. Breaking down barriers to leadership involves dismantling preconceived notions of gender roles, implementing affirmative action measures, and fostering mentorship programs to support the professional development of women.

5. Societal Expectations and Stereotypes

Societal expectations and ingrained stereotypes continue to shape and restrict women’s roles. From early childhood, girls are often socialized into specific gender norms that dictate behavior, career choices, and life aspirations. The pressure to conform to these expectations limits individual agency and perpetuates gender inequalities. Challenging societal norms requires a concerted effort to redefine perceptions of femininity and masculinity, encouraging a more inclusive and equitable understanding of gender roles.

Women’s intricate roles and contributions are the threads that stitch together the diverse fabric of our world. Women shape, nurture, and lead with unwavering resilience, from the foundational bonds of family to the broader tapestry of society. Their influence extends beyond their roles, encompassing education, the workforce, politics, and cultural dynamics. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of a woman as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and more, it is important to dismantle barriers, challenge stereotypes, and foster environments where every woman can thrive. Embracing the importance of women is not just a matter of equality but a commitment to realizing the full potential of humanity. With each role she assumes, a woman leaves an indelible mark, contributing to a richer, more inclusive narrative that transcends generations and paves the way for a future where the strength and significance of every woman are celebrated and valued.

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Essay on Role of Women in Society for School Students

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The role of women in society has been a highly contested topic throughout history. In general, the role of women has been largely subordinate to that of men; however, there have been a number of cultures and societies in which women have played a more equal or even dominant role. The status of women in society is determined by a number of factors, including economic, social, and political factors.

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The role of women in society has been changing rapidly in recent years. In many countries, women have been granted equal rights to men, and they have been able to participate in all aspects of society, including the workforce. However, there are still many societies in which women are not treated equally to men, and their roles are more limited.

We have provided various essays on role of women in society under different word limits for the school students.

Long and Short Essay on Role of Women in Indian Society in English

Role of women in society essay 1 (100 words).

Women play variety of significant roles in our society from their birth till the end of life. Even after playing her all the roles and all the job timely in efficient manner in the modern society, she is weak because men are still strongest gender of the society. Even after lots of awareness programmes, rules and regulations in the society by the government, her life is more complicated than a man. She has to take care of herself and family members as daughter, granddaughter, sister, daughter-in-law, wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, etc. By following such a big responsibility in the family, they are fully able to come out and do job for bright future of own, family and country.

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Role of Women in Society Essay 2 (150 words)

Women are considered as the goddess in the Indian society from the ancient time however it is also true that they are not treated as goddess. They are being ill-treated for many years and used just as things to fulfil the wishes of men. Considering them as goddess is not enough to give them full women empowerment in the society; however it needs positive continuous effort and participation of both men and women to really bring women empowerment.

Women play a great role in everyone’s life without whom we cannot imagine the success of life. They are the highly responsible for the successful continuation of the life on this planet. Earlier they were considered as only wives and mother who have to cook food, clean home and take care of the whole family members alone. But, now the condition has been improved a little bit, they have started taking part in the many activities other than family and kids.

Role of Women in Society Essay 3 (200 words)

The way of behaving, thinking and doing of women is completely different from the men so we can say that women are physically, physiologically and psychologically not equal to men. But women are more responsible than men in various means like child-bearing and child-rearing. The tradition and culture of women lifestyle in India is coming as usual for many years without any change however in terms of rights of women, it is so bad and backward than other countries. The main question is why it is so, is women are responsible for their backwardness or men or lots of women’s responsibilities in home.

Women are treated differently than men in terms of rights and dues in many Indian societies even in the modern world. Men have dominating nature over women in various perspectives. It is the matter of think that if women are given all the same facilities like men and force them to be free from all the home responsibilities and think like men then why not it is possible for women to be like men psychologically in every areas of life. Earlier women were limited to home works only and not allowed to go outside to perform social works like men. But things are getting changed now; women are being aware of their rights and understanding well the dominating nature of men over their whole life.

Article on Women Empowerment

Role of Women in Society Essay 4 (250 words)

If we compare the current status of women than the ancient time, we can say that really the condition is improving gradually. Women are being professional, bread-earners for their families and an independently thinking individual of the country even after only being responsible for many responsibilities of the life. Traditional Indian women have started proving themselves more skilled and competent in many professions than men. And, day by day the situation is improving fast by breaking all the barriers of the way.

The Indian government also has played great role in the women empowerment by implementing various rules and regulations. The ancient time trends such as female foeticide, dowry deaths, early child marriage, domestic abuse, child labour, sexual harassment, etc have been banned by the government which has really improved the women status in the society. A woman plays variety of great roles in everyone’s life in various forms by being involved in various relationships. From her birth till her end of life, she plays various roles as a daughter, sister, wife, mother and other relationships. However, her main roles are as a wife and mother. The status of women in urban societies is better however in various rural societies it is still worse because of lack of proper education and education system. A woman give birth to a baby and considered to be only responsible for her baby regarding care, education, job, etc for whole life. She never demands anything in return of her roles instead she performs her roles politely all through the life without any argue.

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Role of Women in Society Essay 5 (300 words)

Women in modern Indian society are really forward if we compare them from the ancient time but if we talk about the women empowerment, we can say that not really women are empowered in all areas. Even after being so forward, women need to go for long way defeating hard circumstances. Women have gained lots of influence in various fields until balance between two genders. We can say that women have more freedom than earlier however not true in many cases because prejudice still remains in the society.

In many places, women are still treated as inferior sex and forced to handle only house hold chores. Some women in the society love to follow the old traditions of the family and perform traditional female role by being housewife and mother. They live their whole life as general helpers to their husbands and kids. It has been in the usual practise for a woman by birth to handle home and stay unemployed at home. Some women from the society of high living status are keen to get employed like men in the future because they have been lived in the society having higher level of thoughts like that. They are never ill-treated in their family and always promoted to do better in life like men. However women in the backward society, where people only mean to earn food of two times daily, never understand their rights and responsibilities like men. All the differences are just because of the lack of proper education and education system in that area.

Women need to realize their roles towards their society and country together with their roles at home which is possible through the continuous effort, gender equality and women empowerment. People are being more advance in their behaviour and thoughts towards the women rights and empowerment.

Role of Women in Society Essay 6 (400 words)

Women play a great role in the growth and development of the society and making it an advanced and modern society. There is a famous saying by the Brigham Young that, “You educate a man; you educate a man. You educate a woman; you educate a generation.” Educating and giving power to the women is of great importance which needs to be followed in the society to bring women empowerment and development of society. Because it is true that, if a man is getting educated and empowered, only he can be benefitted however if a woman is getting educated and empowered, whole family and society can be benefitted.

Women are not things which can be neglected because of their less power and authority instead they should be empowered and promoted to get higher education. Women are the half population of the world mean half power of the world. If women of any country are not empowered mean that country is lack of half power. By nature, women play their all the roles with great responsibilities and have capability to make a healthy family, solid society and powerful country. Lots of efforts have been done however still women are backward and limited to home activities. We need to understand that if an uneducated woman may handle home properly then why not a well educated woman can lead the whole country like men.

Without woman nothing is possible for men, they are basic unit of the society, they make a family, family make a home, home make a society and ultimately societies make a country. So the contribution of a woman is everywhere from taking birth and giving birth to a child to the care for whole life and other areas. All the roles and responsibilities of the women can never be neglected by the societies. Without education and women empowerment no development is possible in the family, society and country. Women know well how to talk, how to behave, how to deal with people of different classes, etc. She knows to handle all the situations because she knows well the basic fundamentals of a good society and play her roles politely as a main contributor in building a strong society.

Earlier, when the lives of women were worse than slaves, women were considered as animals and used as sex toys. It was a sin for women to give birth to a girl baby, either they were killed, buried alive or thrown away by the male head of the family. However, the condition has become advance now in many means but not completely.

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Frequently Asked Questions on Role of Women in Society

What is the role of women in society essay.

An essay on the role of women in society discusses the multifaceted roles women play, from homemakers to professionals, shaping the cultural, economic, and social fabric of their communities. It emphasizes the evolving importance and recognition of women's contributions over time.

What is women's status in society?

Women's status in society has seen significant evolution. Historically, many societies marginalized women, but today, increasing recognition of women's rights has led to their enhanced status in many areas. Yet, disparities persist in various regions and sectors.

What are the basic rights of women?

The basic rights of women include the right to life, equality, education, freedom from discrimination, right to work, health, and protection from violence. These rights aim to ensure women can live with dignity, make choices, and participate fully in society.

What are the problems faced by women today?

Women today face a myriad of challenges, including gender wage gaps, domestic violence, limited access to education in some regions, workplace discrimination, and societal stereotypes. These issues vary in intensity across different societies and cultures.

What are the biggest women issues in India?

In India, major issues faced by women include gender-based violence, dowry-related crimes, female infanticide, limited access to education in some areas, workplace discrimination, and issues related to women's reproductive rights.

What is the need for women empowerment?

Women empowerment is essential to ensure that women have equal opportunities to contribute to and benefit from economic, social, cultural, and political advancements. Empowering women leads to a balanced and progressive society, where all members can thrive.

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Women’s Changing Roles in Society, Essay Example

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Women’s roles have changed from the beginning until modern times. Initially, women were taught to be submissive. They were to obey God, people in authority, their parents, and their husbands. Married women’s submissiveness was both a religious and a legal duty. However, women fought for equality and human dignity and, with time, gained independence. As a result, the role of women has constantly been changing. For example, women were initially the primary givers of the elderly and children, but with time women are now taking the lead in helping families adjust to challenges and new realities. This paper will analyze the societal changes in the role of women in the workplace over time.

When two people perform the same job, they should get the same pay regardless of their hair colour, race, height, or gender. In 2018, the United States women’s national soccer team qualified for the World Cup. The team has been generating more revenue compared to its male counterparts over the years. The women players have a union that bargains for higher base pay and other benefits, including maternity leave. Women have gotten into soccer contracts that require the soccer management to pay accordingly until their contracts expire. Nowadays, women face no discrimination in pay, but their work choices lead to payment differences. Today, women have options and opportunities in the labour market; they can choose whether to take flexible jobs or climb the corporate ladder. Their choices depend on whether they want to work remotely or balance their family needs. Though there are some differences in men’s and women’s overall wages, regardless of gender, one can make choices, for there are free-market principles that create job opportunities and higher incomes for everybody (Greszler n.p.).

After the Second World War, many regarded a family as their center of life. Women gave up their jobs to take care of their families. As a result, the men became the only breadwinners as women were to care for the children. In 1920, 47% of college students were women, but the number declined; by 1958, the figure was 38%, despite federal aid in university education (Office of the Historian n.p). Women in congress had constraints due to the social expectations of women’s proper role. The women faced prejudice before joining politics because society believed women’s place was at home. Like in Andy Knutson’s case, women’s careers would be sabotaged by their husbands. Her husband would accuse her of neglecting their family and even having extra-marital affairs. However, in the 1960s, the women’s rights movement challenged traditional marriage and motherhood notions. Reproductive and sexual freedom provided several options for women. In the 1970s, women were in careers and would help with family duties. Divorce cases rose, and single working mothers became common. Over the years, women pursued male-dominated courses and engaged in national and state politics (Office of the Historian n.p).

Over the years, women have had different experiences. Some societies had political leaders, warriors, and powerful priests. Some people express that women are inferior to men. Currently, in Western societies, women enjoy equality. Women in the past have lost and gained power in different seasons. Women initially faced discrimination and gender-based violence. Some women were vital figures in ancient times, and their names echo history. Some women engaged in herbal medicine, and male doctors considered it witchcraft and quackery treatment. As a result, governments made it illegal to practice medicine without university studies, and women did not get admission opportunities to universities. Women were homemakers and were not allowed to vote. They could not own businesses and had lesser property rights than men. However, the world wars showed women were equal to the task in factory work as they positively contributed to the economy’s growth. In the 20th century, women had equality gains. Nowadays, women have work choices and enjoy job equality (McKeown, n.p.).

Regardless of the cultural narratives, women are heroes and leaders. Nowadays, there is a shift in perceptions of what women and girls can do. There have been a lot of female leaders, innovators, and heroes (Laitman, n.p). Women mainly constitute America’s workforce. Most managers in companies are women. Americans now prefer having a daughter because they think their daughters will have better lives than their mothers, great mothers, and even their brothers(Rosin n.p.). Initially, parents would reject daughters. Things are changing since women are doing better in the economy than men. Countries now force women into power to improve the nation’s fortunes (Sek?ci?ska et al., 365). For instance, after the post-genocide in Rwanda, citizens elected most women in parliament to heal themselves from the harm and massive killings that happened; women are believed to be comforters and a source of peace due to their caring nature. America’s working class is turning to matriarchy, which earlier had masculinity notions. Women making decisions at home initially meant to be done by men is common, for they have been increasingly absent from home.

American projects show that out of 15 job categories are projected to grow in future, except two. The rest of the job categories, including medicine and business, will be primarily occupied by women. Upper-class women leave their homes to work, creating domestic jobs for other women. Women are now going to work while their husbands stay home, minding their kids or looking for jobs; this has pushed women to do things against the natural norm. Women work as singles, and once they get married, they still work, leaving their children at home. They are even dominating middle management and several professional careers. In 1980, women held 26.1% of professional and managerial jobs, unlike today, where the rate has increased to 51.4% (Rosin, n.p.). Women are acquiring formal education, improving their social intelligence and communication skills. Women adopt office work. Nowadays, women have a better list of job requirements than men. As far as employers give women an opportunity to work with minimum pleasure, they are dutiful and intelligent. There have been prominent female CEOs in the past and even the present. However, women face challenges due to their motherly duties, breastfeeding. Some companies, for instance, Deloitte, have a model program that allows employees to adjust their working hours depending on their stage in life. The program solves complex issues, including breastfeeding women to balance work and motherhood. In leadership, women are competitive and assertive, with very slight variations from their male counterparts. Women are bringing superior moral sensibility to the business world.

A recent study shows many Americans believe women are competent just like their male counterparts. Initially, women had a glass ceiling that hindered them from rising to the top jobs (Bennett, n.p.). However, in the recent past, women are slowly rising to the top rank positions. They are no longer restricted to household chores and looking after their families. Women are increasingly acquiring higher education, getting better income, and they have long-term careers. They do not require heavy labour, for they are skilled just like men. In addition, most women are trustworthy and transparent (Sek?ci?ska et al., 365). Their transparency benefits the companies they work for and themselves; it fosters an inclusive environment for them to have more significant opportunities, fulfilling their potential. Women managers promote employee well-being more consistently than their male counterparts. They support the team members with work-life challenges and help them manage their workloads.

In the 21st century, women’s education and income continue to rise. The number of women in college continues to grow steadily. Higher education increases the likelihood of increased earnings. Women in the workforce increased by almost double in this century. Fifty per cent of American women-owned firms and about one million were in the private labour force.; Equal opportunities legislation, the feminist movement, economic knowledge, increased education access, and service sector expansion significantly contributed to the change in women’s labour force. Women are now in occupations previously regarded as male roles. Female employment trends have significantly impacted women’s economic empowerment. According to economists, the growing participation of women in the workforce substantially affects the nation’s GDP, raising it by 21%. Many women own businesses and are entrepreneurs who bring in money for the government.

In conclusion, women have made tremendous progress in the workforce. Women are now more educated and economically empowered than ever before; they earn higher wages for the same work as men and enjoy greater access to better jobs and positions of leadership. They have balanced their family life with their career options. Women in the workforce have significantly contributed to our society’s economic growth. It is essential to realize that despite the progress, there is still work regarding gender equality and equal pay for women and men. Women should continue to break boundaries, push for higher wages and strive for leadership positions. With determination and hard work, women can achieve anything they set their minds to.

Works Cited

Bennett, Jessica. “Who Still Calls It a ‘Glass Ceiling?’ Not the 6 Women Running for President.” The New York Times , 23 July 2019, www.nytimes.com/2019/07/23/us/politics/glass-ceiling-female-candidates-2020.html.

Greszler, Rachel. “Why the Pay Gap between Women’s and Men’s Soccer?” The Heritage Foundation , 2019, www.heritage.org/jobs-and-labor/commentary/why-the-pay-gap-between-womens-and-mens-soccer.

Laitman, Michael. “Women’s Changing Role in Society.” Medium, Good Audience, 28 Aug. 2018, blog.goodaudience.com/womens-changing-role-in-society-c7a957a0272b

McKeown, Marie. “Women through History: Women’s Experience through the Ages.” Owlcation, 4 May 2011, owlcation.com/humanities/Women-Through-History.

Office of the Historian. “Postwar Gender Roles and Women in American Politics.” US House of Representatives: History, Art & Archives , history.house.gov/Exhibitions-and-Publications/WIC/Historical-Essays/Changing-Guard/Identity/.

Rosin, Hanna. “The End of Men.” The Atlantic , 8 June 2010, www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2010/07/the-end-of-men/308135/.

Sek?ci?ska, Katarzyna, et al. “The Influence of Different Social Roles Activation on Women’s Financial and Consumer Choices.” Frontiers in Psychology, 7 (2016): 365.

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Women's Power in the Struggle for Freedom and Equal Rights

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“Democracy is a universally recognized ideal based on common values shared by people across the world, irrespective of cultural, political, social and economic differences. As recognized in the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action , democracy is based on the freely expressed will of the people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems and their full participation in all aspects of their lives . Democracy, development, rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms are interdependent and mutually reinforcing.” -  United Nations, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

The principles of democracy insist on, especially from a twenty-first century perspective, the inclusion of all people, regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, or ability. And yet governments around the world have a history of barring certain classes of people from being heard, seen, and fairly represented. Throughout history this has been especially true for women. And yet, despite repeated and ongoing attempts to sideline women in society, there has always been a consistent female force, fighting for freedom, equality, and democratic ideals.

For example, Chilean women who lived during Pinochet’s dictatorship were under the threat of constant danger, but they resisted by creating dissident art and forming the Moviemento Pro Emancipación de la Mujer. The Turkish coup of 1980 inspired a feminist movement that existed in open rebellion. They decried their loss of freedom and organized mass protests, including a 1987 march against gender-based violence. And here, in the United States of America, one of the oldest modern democracies in the world, it took a staggering 144 years for women in the US to be granted suffrage with the passage of the 19th amendment in 1920. It would take 45 more years for the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to be passed before Black women gained full access to the vote. But the right to vote was not just granted to women—they had to fight for it. 

There are endless examples of “the fairer sex” doing anything in their power to be seen as the equal sex—these examples are a testament to women's impact on society, government, and history. As we celebrate Women’s History Month in March, Facing History has curated a list of resources to showcase female upstanders who have fought for freedom, human rights, and promoted the principles of democracy, even under oppressive regimes and laws restricting them from representation.

The American Revolution and Challenging the Ideals of a Fledgling Democracy

Elizabeth freeman.

Entering the world as Mum Bett in the mid-sixteenth century, Elizabeth Freeman was born into slavery. As the white men around her—and notably her enslaver, Colonel Ashley—spoke of rights and freedoms amidst the creation of the Declaration of Independence and war with England, the idea of her own freedom took root. Freeman acquired legal representation in Massachusetts and sued for her right to be free. She became the first African American to win her freedom from the courts in Massachusetts, leading to abolition of slavery in that state. Learn more about Freeman’s life from the National Women’s History Museum and from the New-York Historical Society .

Judith Sargent Murray

Born into a wealthy family in 1751, Judith Sargent Murray was curious and intelligent, but was not permitted to attend school because of her gender. Undeterred, she turned to her family’s extensive library and became a self-taught intellectual and writer. Murray was a radical (at the time) advocate for white women’s rights, declaring that men and women held equal ability if given equal access to education. Murray penned her first essay, “On the Equality of the Sexes,” in 1770—it was finally published 20 years later.

This Facing History Reading , included in our US History Curriculum Collection , excerpts “On the Equality of the Sexes” and offers questions and exercises for deeper reflection and connection to the text. The entire essay can be found here .

Learn more about Murray’s life from the National Women’s History Museum .

Suffragettes and the Right to Vote

Frances ellen watkins harper.

In 1825 Frances Ellen Watkins Harper was born to free African American parents. Following the death of her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle, the latter of whom was an impassioned abolitionist. As a young adult she was mentored by her uncle’s friend William Still known as the “father of the Underground Railroad.” Harper then became a strong voice in the anti-slavery movement and a fierce supporter of women’s rights, publishing works based on these ideals and delivering speeches across the country.

This Facing History Reading excerpts one of her most famous speeches and offers connection questions for deeper learning.

Learn more about Harper’s life from  the National Women’s History Museum .

Emmeline Pankhurst

It is perhaps no surprise that Emmeline Pankhurst became among the most influential suffragists in Great Britain. Born in 1858, she was raised by parents committed to the full expansion of rights to women. She went on to found the Women’s Franchise League and later the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) whose famous slogan was “Deeds not Words.” Pankhurst threw her body and mind into the suffrage cause including participating in a hunger strike and being jailed on multiple occasions for her provocative protests.

This Facing History Handout on Women in Edwardian Society includes excerpts from Pankhurt’s “Freedom or Death” speech and offers a wide range of connection questions.

Learn more about Pankhurst’s life from the National Park Service .

The Pursuit for Civil Rights and Racial Equality

Anti-apartheid movement.

Apartheid is an Afrikaans word meaning “apartness.” South Africans abolished slavery in 1834, but the colonial influence on the country made segregation the de facto state. It wasn’t until the National Party, which ran on a platform of Afrikaner nationalism, won the 1948 South African election that segregation was codified by law. One way that Black women in South Africa pushed back on segregationist policies was to protest the limitations placed on the free movement of Black Africans in the country. The 1950s saw the formation of the Federation of South African Women. In 1956 this grassroots movement enjoined a crowd 20,000 strong to march to Pretoria. Facing History’s Confronting Apartheid Collection provides a comprehensive set of lessons to explore critical moments in South Africa's history. This collection includes the Reading:  Women Rise Up Against Apartheid and Change the Movement .

Mamie Till-Mobley

Mamie Carthan was born in Mississippi in 1921, but as a toddler she moved just outside of Chicago, Illinois with her parents. On July 25, 1941 she gave birth to her only child, Emmett Till. In the summer of 1955, when Emmett was 14, Mamie dropped her son off at the train station in Chicago to go visit her Uncle Moses’s farm in Mississippi and spend some time with family. He never came home. On August 28 Emmett was brutally murdered by a group of white men, led by the husband of a shopkeeper who was incensed that the young boy had allegedly whistled at his wife. The horrific death of her son, and the subsequent acquittal of Emmett’s murderers, resulted in Mamie Till-Mobley’s emergence as a leading activist for the civil rights movement.

Facing History’s “I Wanted the Whole World to See”: The Murder of Emmett Till Unit includes the following moving accounts of Mamie Till-Mobley as a mother and a civil rights pioneer. Reading: “ I Knew I Had to Give Him the Talk ” Lesson: " A Rallying Cry and a Cause "

Today’s Global Advocates for Human Rights

Anti-war sudanese organizers.

During the 30 year rule of President Omar Hassan al-Bashir, Sudanese women came out multiple times to protest the abhorrent treatment of women under his regime, often in open defiance of their family or the law. In 2019 it was estimated that two-thirds of Sudanese protesters were women. The military coup d'état in 2019 prompted the current devastating civil war between rival factions in Sudan, and again women face the biggest obstacles among the violence. Almost 90% of Sudanese people seeking refugee status in neighboring Chad are women. Learn more about the plight of Sudanese women today in these articles from Al Jazeera and the Norwegian Refugee Council . A look at the freedom and peace efforts of Sudanese women can be seen in these reports from the Christian Michelsen Institute and ReliefWeb .

Protest against the Islamic Republic of Iran's Regime

The 2022 arrest and death of Kurdish Iranian woman Mahsa Jhina Amini at the hands of Iran’s morality police has led to what some are calling a new Iranian Revolution. Since Amini’s death the people of Iran—including a flood of girls and women who have risked the same fate—have crowded the streets to demand an end to the brutal tactics and oppressive laws of the theocratic, dictatorial government. Even as the street protests have decreased, Iranian women continue to fight back through acts of civil disobedience including not following the strict veiling regulations or opting to go out publicly without a hijab altogether. The protest call of “Zan, Zendegi, Azadi” (Woman, Life, Freedom - shown above in Kurdish) continues to galvanize the movement, garnering support and participation from Iranians of all backgrounds in Iran and abroad. Learn more about the Iranian women mobilizing government resistance in these articles from Ms. and the Wilson Center . These quotes collected by Women’s Voices Now provide an inspirational glimpse at some of the individuals pushing for change.

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Visualizing the data: Women’s representation in society

Date: 25 February 2020

Women’s full and equal participation in all facets of society is a fundamental human right. Yet, around the world, from politics to entertainment to the workplace, women and girls are largely underrepresented.

The visualizations below take a closer look at this gender-imbalanced picture over time, revealing just how slow progress is. Rooted in patriarchal norms and traditions, the consequences are far-reaching with detrimental, negative consequences on the personal, economic and future well-being of women and girls, their families and the community at large.

Building a sustainable future for all, means leaving no one behind. Women and girls are critical to finding solutions to the biggest challenges we face today and must be heard, valued and celebrated throughout society to reflect their perspectives and choices for their future and that of the advancement of humanity.

How many more generations are needed for women and girls to realize their rights? Join Generation Equality to demand equal rights and opportunities or all. Share this piece today using #GenerationEquality, #IWD2020 and #CSW64.

Politics 

Women’s political representation globally has doubled in the last 25 years. But, this only amounts to around 1 in 4 parliamentary seats held by women today. 

Women continue to be significantly underrepresented in the highest political positions. In October 2019, there were only 10 women Head of State and 13 women Head of Government across 22 countries, compared with four Head of State and eight Prime Ministers across 12 countries in 1995.

Source:  Inter-Parliamentary Union (Data as of 1 January 2020); Report of the UN Secretary-General E/CN.6/2020/3

In June 2019, the Fortune 500 hit a milestone with the most women CEOs on record. While every gain is a win, the sum as a whole is a bleak picture: Out of the 500 chief executives leading the highest-grossing firms, just under 7 per cent are women.

When looking at the workforce as a whole, the gender gap in labour force participation among prime working age adults (25 to 54) has stagnated over the past 20 years. Improved education among women has done little to shift deeply entrenched occupational segregation in developed and developing countries. Women continue to carry out a disproportionate share of unpaid care and domestic work. In developing countries, that includes arduous tasks such as water collection, for which women and girls are responsible in 80 per cent of households that do not have access to water on the premises.

Source:  Fortune 500 (Data as of 1 June 2019); Catalyst ;  Report of the UN Secretary-General E/CN.6/2020/3

Culture and sciences

Bestowed annually to recognize intellectual achievement and academic, cultural and scientific advances, the Nobel Prize has been awarded to more than 900 individuals in the course of its history from 1901 to 2019. Only 53 of the winners have been women, 19 in the categories of physics, chemistry, and physiology or medicine. Marie Curie became the first female laureate in 1903, when she and her husband won a joint Prize for physics. Eight years later she was solely awarded the Chemistry Prize, making her the only woman in history to win the Nobel Prize twice. Although women have been behind a number of scientific discoveries throughout history, just 30 per cent of researchers worldwide and 35 per cent of all students enrolled in STEM-related fields of study are women.

Source:  The Nobel Foundation  (Data as of 2019);  Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals: The gender snapshot 2019 , UN Women

When it comes to equality of men and women in news media, progress has virtually ground to a halt. According to the largest study on the portrayal, participation and representation of women in the news media spanning 20 years and 114 countries, only 24 per cent of the persons heard, read about or seen in newspaper, television and radio news are women. A glass ceiling also exists for women news reporters in newspaper bylines and newscast reports, with 37 per cent of stories reported by women as of 2015, showing no change over the course of a decade. Despite the democratizing promise of digital media, women’s poor representation in traditional news media is also reflected in digital news, with women making up only 26 per cent of the people in Internet news stories and media news tweets. Only 4 per cent of traditional news and digital news stories clearly challenge gender stereotypes. Among other factors, stereotypes and the significant underrepresentation of women in the media play a significant role in shaping harmful attitudes of disrespect and violence towards women.

Source:  The Global Media Monitoring Project (Data as of 2015); Report of the UN Secretary-General E/CN.6/2020/3

Entertainment

Like other forms of media, film and television have a powerful influence in shaping cultural perceptions and attitudes towards gender and are key to shifting the narrative for the gender equality agenda. Yet, an analysis of popular films across 11 countries found, for example, that 31 per cent of all speaking characters were women and that only 23 per cent featured a female protagonist—a number that closely mirrored the percentage of women filmmakers (21 per cent). 

The gross underrepresentation of women in the film industry is also glaringly evident in critically acclaimed film awards: In the 92-year history of the Oscars, only five women have ever been nominated for the Best Director Award category; and one woman—Kathryn Bigelow—has ever won. And, Jane Campion remains the only woman director to have won the Cannes Film Festival’s top, most prestigious prize, the Palme d’Or, in its 72-year history. The only other women to have received the prize—but jointly—were actresses Adèle Exarchopoulos and Léa Seydoux with the movie's male director Abdellatif Kechiche. If a picture is worth a thousand words, the message is worth a million: If we are to shift stereotypical notions of gender and reflect women’s realities, we need more women in film, on-screen and off-screen. 

Source:  The Official Academy Awards® Database (Data as of 2020); A Brief History of the Palme d’Or, Cannes Film Festival (Data as of 2019)

Sports has the power to inspire change and break gender stereotypes—and women have been doing just that decade after decade, showing that they are just as capable, resilient and strong as men physically, but also strategically, as leaders and game changers (Generation Equality pro tip: Watch Billie Jean King’s history-altering tennis match Battle of the Sexes).

Today, women are far more visible in sports than ever before: The Tokyo 2020 Olympics is projected to have close to equal representation of women and men competing for the first time in its history. For comparison, only 22 women (2.2 per cent) out of a total of 997 athletes competed in the modern Olympics for the first time in 1900. Women and men will compete in almost all sports categories with an exception: Rhythmic gymnastics and artistic swimming are women’s-only events and Greco-Roman wrestling is a men's-only event—although women can compete in freestyle wrestling.

Despite progress, women still continue to be excluded in certain sports in parts of the world and are paid far less than men in wages and prize money globally. UN Women is working to level the playing field for women and girls, including through partnerships with the International Olympic Committee, and UN Women Goodwill Ambassador and all-time top scorer of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Marta Vieira da Silva. 

essay about the role of woman in society

Source:  The International Olympic Committee (Data as of 2020); FIFA (Data as of 2019)

Culinary arts

Despite women being prescribed stereotypical roles in the kitchen at home, the upper echelons of the restaurant industry have remained relatively closed to female chefs. As detailed in the documentary A Fine Line , women must often overcome active discrimination and navigate a culture that both glorifies masculinity and tacitly condones harassment. Paired with long, unpredictable and inflexible working hours, unfriendly family and childcare policies and lower salaries, women face enormous challenges when entering the restaurant business. The numbers match the story: Today, just under 4 per cent of chefs with three Michelin stars (the highest rating you can get) from the prominent restaurant guide are women. 

Source:  Michelin (Data as of 2019)

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Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Society — The Roles of Women in the Society

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The Roles of Women in The Society

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Words: 840 |

Published: Aug 14, 2018

Words: 840 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Hook Examples for Women’s Rights Essay

  • A Historical Glimpse: From suffragettes to modern activists, women have continually reshaped society’s expectations. Join me on a journey through history to understand the evolving roles and contributions of women.
  • An Inspiring Quote: Margaret Atwood once wrote, “We were the people who were not in the papers. We lived in the blank white spaces at the edges of print.” These words resonate with the silent strength of countless women throughout history. Let’s explore their untold stories.
  • A Cultural Perspective: Women’s roles vary across cultures, often reflecting deeply ingrained traditions and norms. Delve into the rich tapestry of global perspectives on the roles of women in society.
  • A Contemporary Analysis: As society evolves, so do the expectations and opportunities for women. Explore with me the current state of women’s roles in various fields and the challenges they continue to face.
  • An Empowering Truth: Maya Angelou once said, “Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women.” Join me in celebrating the resilience, strength, and empowerment of women as they redefine their roles in society.

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essay about the role of woman in society

The International Journal of Indian Psychȯlogy

The International Journal of Indian Psychȯlogy

Femininity Complex in Indian Society and the Role of NEP in Gender Parity

| Published: September 02, 2024

essay about the role of woman in society

In 2015, Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao was launched in India, witnessing the alarming drop in the country’s child-sex ratio due to rising female infanticide and dowry cases, encouraging families to change their tabooed mindset towards the existence of girl-child. This study was undertaken to understand the perspective and experience of female students towards education and the requirement of the New Education Policy based on the critical feedback received from an in-depth semi-structured interview of 20 female students (18-28 years) of MGCGV, Chitrakoot, Satna, M.P.  The study aimed to shed light on how education provides existential value, exploring the connection between the education sector and the BBBP scheme, and elaborating on the core reasons for the ineffectiveness of the policy from a psycho-socio-cultural perspective.  The interview results have been divided into five sections which yielded the perception of female students towards the quality of education, failure of the Utilitarian model of education, psychological gaps in the BBBP campaign due to the Masculinity- Femininity complex in Indian society and the potential benefits of NEP in evolving the collective consciousness of Indian society’s psyche through integrative value-based education. In conclusion, the study has aimed to study the femininity complex in Indian society which requires a culturally and spiritually rich educational rectification to eradicate the violence based upon sexism and sow seeds for a society that recognizes the value of a woman for who she is in her mind and soul,  free from crisis based structures that encourage symbolical death of her femininity for survival, providing generous space for her to use her potential, and contribute her part in the development of society fearlessly.

Femininity complex , New Education Policy , Beti Bachao Beti Padhao , Feminine Psychology , Gender Education

essay about the role of woman in society

This is an Open Access Research distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any Medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

© 2024, Mishra, K. & Khangarot, R.

Received: June 12, 2024; Revision Received: August 29, 2024; Accepted: September 02, 2024

Kritika Mishra @ [email protected]

essay about the role of woman in society

Article Overview

Published in   Volume 12, Issue 3, July-September, 2024

Gender Treatment: Changing Role of Women in Modern Society Essay

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In the last 50 years, the role and social functions of women have dramatically been changed due to extreme desire of women to fight for their rights and freedoms. The emergence of feminist movements allows male society to reconsider their attitudes to the roles of women. Specifically, the conventional views on women as mothers, wives, and friends have been blurred with the emergence of emancipated movement leading to the professional equality of women.

More and more females occupy leading positions at the top of managerial ladder by brining in confidence in other women. Significant advances have been achieved by women in educational, industrial, and social sphere. Despite the valuable contribution that women made to the development of society, the role reversal between US men and women is demonstrated most explicitly and painfully in the working class, having significant cultural and political consequences for the development of the American society.

So far, it was hard to imagine that women can occupy the leading positions in industrial, scientific, educational, and political spheres, since men were traditionally believed to be the most suitable for these professional areas. Nowadays, these stereotypes have been blurred and, as a result, a plethora of advances has been introduced to various social and cultural spheres.

In particular, because male prevailing society prevented them from learning, “knowledge…make[s] them question the binding power of the conventions and believes which…would show them how to achieve their freedom” (Barnes, 2009, p. 22). Education, therefore, was the only path to achieve privileges that men had. Moreover, women’s desire to gain advantage over men led to the achievement of the economic independence, as well as advances made in industrial spheres.

The criticism of gender differences has touched on the changes in top corporate positions that were previously taken by men. Thus, the shift of power from men to women has allowed the latter to possess greater control of middle management positions. The statistics shows that “women now hold 51.4 percent of managerial and processional jobs – up from 26.1 percent in 1980” (Rosin, 2010, n. p.).

Because of ongoing suppressions, women activated their aspirations to go through the barriers and acquire professional credentials to prove their knowledge is a valuable asset to the development of society. Thus, women have managed heighten the corporate performance and, therefore, each firm thinking beyond stereotypes ad interested in profits succeeded significantly in recruiting high-potential and skillful women.

Role reversal of American men and women have significantly affected cultural and political atmosphere in the United States. Clair (2011) emphasizes, “given the trends of pushing economy and society, this domination seems like a last gasp of a dying age” (p. 147).

Though male professionals hold about 15 job categories, women have captured the rest, including nursing, teaching, manufacturing, etc. Therefore, the role reversal has made women dominate and become even more independent and confident. As a result, women have become less reliant on men and, as result, the latter are now less independent and resolute.

In conclusion, the advances in various facets of societal development have posited women to higher professional positions. Advances made in education, industry, and leadership has significantly feminized the modern culture. Men become more development on women’s culture and companies encourage gifted and promising women to apply for their positions.

Barnes, E. (2009). Woman in Modern Society . US: Echo Library.

Clair, M. (2011). So Much, So Fast, So Little Time: Coming to Terms with Rapid Change and its Consequences . US: ABC-CLIO.

Rosin, H. (2010). The End of Men . The Atlantic. Web.

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IvyPanda. (2019, April 5). Gender Treatment: Changing Role of Women in Modern Society. https://ivypanda.com/essays/gender-treatment-changing-role-of-women-in-modern-society/

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essay about the role of woman in society

Home » News » South Africa

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By Faizel Patel

Senior Digital Journalist

4 minute read

Ramaphosa commends Eskom for increasing female representation, women’s role in keeping the light on

'within eskom itself, women are working as power station managers, engineers, artisans, operators and technicians,' says ramaphosa..

'Eskom showing the way towards empowerment of women' - Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa: Picture: The Presidency

President Cyril Ramaphosa said while the country has made great progress in improving the position of women in society, it continues to face many challenges in building “a truly non-sexist and equal society.”

Ramaphosa made the remarks in his weekly newsletter From the desk of the President.

The president said while Eskom has managed to keep load shedding at bay, it also managed to narrow the gender gap in the workplace.

“While there is much attention on what Eskom is doing to stabilise our electricity system, another significant change has been quietly underway at the company over the course of the last few years,” said Ramaphosa.

Prominent roles

Ramaphosa said women are taking more prominent roles at Eskom.

‘EFF continues to stand against infiltrators’ − Malema

“Women are taking a more prominent role in the work of Eskom and are playing a pivotal role in keeping the country’s lights on, said Ramaphosa.

“Two years ago. I met with Eskom’s power station managers and I was pleased to see that a number of them were women. I found this to be a complete departure from the past where power station managers were always white men. This represented tremendous transformation on a demographic as well as gender basis.

“The inspiring story of Maserati Lesolang, the general manager of the Matla Power Station in Mpumalanga, is a demonstration of Eskom’s successes in growing a new generation of female leaders. Under Lesolang’s able leadership, Matla Power Station has implemented a turnaround plan resulting in it now being among Eskom’s better-performing power stations,” Ramaphosa said.

ALSO READ: ‘We must work together to fulfil Zondo’s legacy’ − Ramaphosa

Women in technical roles

Ramaphosa said women are excelling not only in management and leadership positions but also in technical roles and occupations that were previously the preserve of men at various state-owned enterprises.

“Within Eskom itself, women are working as power station managers, engineers, artisans, operators and technicians.  This is the result of a deliberate and sustained initiative to increase female representation in the form of Eskom’s Women Advancement Programme.

“Among the achievements of the programme since its inception has been that just over 33% of Eskom’s workforce is now female, 20% of Eskom executives are women, and women occupy approximately 43% of senior management roles. This is important progress, but there is still some way to go to achieve gender parity,” Ramaphosa said.

Ramaphosa said Eskom has succeeded in narrowing the gender pay gap from 41% to below 6%.

“The company’s procurement spend on black-women-owned businesses has increased from R6 billion in 2013 to over R16 billion by 2022.”

“The national power utility continues to invest heavily in skilling and training for women, with just over half of further study opportunities at Eskom taken up by women,” Ramaphosa said.

Ramaphosa added that another key focus area of the programme is conducting outreach at schools and in communities to encourage female learners to consider future careers at Eskom.

ALSO READ:  GNU having ‘positive effect’ on business confidence − Ramaphosa

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    Chaudhry and Nosheen (2009) state, "Women empowerment seeks change in the sexual division of labor, equal access to food, health care, education credit and employment, ownership of assets, and now access to media" (p. 217). Hence, modern women have transformed economic aspects in the society, thus ensuring economic empowerment..

  15. Women's Power in the Struggle for Freedom and Equal Rights

    Murray was a radical (at the time) advocate for white women's rights, declaring that men and women held equal ability if given equal access to education. Murray penned her first essay, "On the Equality of the Sexes," in 1770—it was finally published 20 years later. This Facing History Reading, included in our US History Curriculum ...

  16. PDF World Survey on The Role of Women in Development

    3. STRENGTHENING INCOME SECURITY AMONG TIME-POOR WOMEN: THE ROLE OF GENDER-RESPONSIVE SOCIAL PROTECTION SYSTEMS 8 10 12 16 21 22 24 26 28 37 46 50 A. Introduction B. Harsh trade-offs: the vicious cycle of poverty and arduous paid and unpaid work among women C. The role of social protection in enhancing income security among women

  17. The role of women in the society

    The critical role that women play in the community should not be taken lightly. Some of the responsibilities include, Love and care. Women show care, love and compassion. Their presence brings exceptional assurances to those who are hurting in society, the needy and the rejected. Women have the ability to love unconditionally even when loving ...

  18. Visualizing the data: Women's representation in society

    Source: Inter-Parliamentary Union (Data as of 1 January 2020); Report of the UN Secretary-General E/CN.6/2020/3 Work. In June 2019, the Fortune 500 hit a milestone with the most women CEOs on record. While every gain is a win, the sum as a whole is a bleak picture: Out of the 500 chief executives leading the highest-grossing firms, just under 7 per cent are women.

  19. PDF The Role of Women in Today's Society: A Review

    Women are the epitome of strength, love, sacrifice and courage. The role of women in today's world has changed significantly and for better. Women are now self-sufficient, well aware and financially independent. They have attained immense success in every field, whether it is sports, politics or academics. With the

  20. The Roles of Women in The Society

    Details. The roles of women in the society and their models of behavior had been distinct differently in the past between them and Men. Women are disadvantages in institutional setting, do a disproportionate amount of housework compared to men. However, there are been considerable change since then. Today, gender roles have been shifted, which ...

  21. 141 Women's Role Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

    The Roles and Treatment of Women in "The Last of the Mohicans" by James Fenimore Cooper. The story of The Last of the Mohicans was set in the mid-1700s. In the course of the effort to save the women, battles were fought, and relationships were formed and destroyed. Women's Changing Roles in Sports.

  22. Are Women Human? Astute and Witty Essays on the Role of…

    The role of both men and women, in her view, was to find the work for which they were suited and to do it. While Sayers did not devote a great deal of time to talking or writing about feminism, she did explicitly address the issue of women's role in society in the two penetrating essays collected here.

  23. At Expresso, Javed and Zoya discuss society's treatment of women, on

    Javed and Zoya reflected on a wide range of topics — the state of Hindi cinema, the evolution of stardom, how societies that exalt the mother figure treat women, and, of course, Amitabh Bachchan. "In any society where there is a lot of premium on the mother, it means women are in a bad shape. They are in trouble.

  24. Femininity Complex in Indian Society and the Role of NEP in Gender

    The International Journal of Indian Psychȯlogy(ISSN 2348-5396) is an interdisciplinary, peer-reviewed, academic journal that examines the intersection of Psychology, Social sciences, Education, and Home science with IJIP. IJIP is an international electronic journal published in quarterly. All peer-reviewed articles must meet rigorous standards and can represent a broad range of substantive ...

  25. Gender Treatment: Changing Role of Women in Modern Society Essay

    In the last 50 years, the role and social functions of women have dramatically been changed due to extreme desire of women to fight for their rights and freedoms. The emergence of feminist movements allows male society to reconsider their attitudes to the roles of women. Specifically, the conventional views on women as mothers, wives, and ...

  26. Eskom showing way towards empowerment of women-Ramaphosa

    "Women are taking a more prominent role in the work of Eskom and are playing a pivotal role in keeping the country's lights on, said Ramaphosa. "Two years ago.