Women can make the world better
- Patterns of economic growth have shifted globally. Long-term employment in industrial forms of establishments is becoming harder to find even in rich countries
- More employment is being generated now in the gig economy and the informal sector
- Even in large industrial establishments, jobs are on short-term contracts
- These trends in the future of work is a special challenge for India, which has the largest number of youth in the world
- They are finding fewer opportunities for dignified work with adequate income and social security even though the Indian economy is among the fastest-growing in the world
- India, which ranks 132 out of 191 countries in human development, needs to invest more in care-giving services. Sadly, care-giving work is not valued in the money economy
- The millions of women providing domestic services, and millions more who are providing care in communities as ASHA workers (Accredited Social Health Activist) and anganwadi workers in primary health and education, are very poorly paid
- The Indian Prime Minister has called upon the G-20 to support human-centric development going beyond GDP
- The vision of globalisation so far has been “One Earth, One Economy, One Future”. India has called for a different vision at the G-20: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: “One Family, One Earth, One Future
- GDP is a monetary measure of only the economic component of a society. GDP does not value caregiving work.
- Therefore, to pursue its ambitions to become a “$10 trillion-dollar GDP” economy, policymakers, even in India, want to pluck women out of their families and from informal work, and push them into more efficient, industrial-form establishments to contribute to GDP
- "One Earth" emphasizes the need for responsible stewardship of the Earth's natural resources and ecosystems. It underscores the importance of addressing environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and resource depletion.
- "One Economy" highlights the necessity of building and maintaining a sustainable global economy.
- This includes fostering economic growth that is environmentally responsible, socially equitable, and financially viable over the long term. Sustainable economic practices aim to ensure prosperity without compromising future generations' ability to meet their needs
- The concept recognizes the interdependencies between environmental and economic factors. Actions that harm the environment can have detrimental economic consequences, and sustainable economic practices can help protect the environment. The idea is that addressing these issues holistically is essential for a better future
- Achieving "One Future" involves fostering international collaboration and multilateral efforts to address global challenges. It recognizes that many environmental and economic issues are not confined by national borders and require collective solutions
- The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, adopted in 2015, embody the principles of "One Earth, One Economy, One Future." These 17 goals cover various aspects of social, economic, and environmental sustainability, aiming to improve the lives of people and the health of the planet.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), officially known as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, are a set of 17 global goals established by the United Nations in September 2015. These goals are designed to address a wide range of social, economic, and environmental challenges and guide the world's efforts toward a more sustainable and equitable future by the year 2030. The SDGs build upon the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) but are more comprehensive and inclusive. Each goal has specific targets and indicators to measure progress. Here are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals:
1. No Poverty
2. Zero Hunger
3. Good Health and Well-being
4. Quality Education
5. Gender Equality
6. Clean Water and Sanitation
7. Affordable and Clean Energy
8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
9. Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
10. Reduced Inequality
11. Sustainable Cities and Communities
12. Responsible Consumption and Production
13. Climate Action
14. Life Below Water
15. Life on Land
16. Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
17. Partnerships for the Goals
5. Women can make the world better
Women play a crucial role in making the world a better place. Gender equality and the empowerment of women are not only fundamental human rights but also key drivers of positive social, economic, and environmental change
Key ways in which Women Contribute to the world:
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Economic Growth: Women's participation in the workforce and entrepreneurship is essential for economic development. When women have equal opportunities and access to resources, it can lead to increased productivity and economic growth.
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Education: Educated women tend to invest more in their families' education and well-being. When girls and women have access to quality education, it can break the cycle of poverty, improve health outcomes, and lead to more informed decision-making.
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Healthcare: Women often serve as caregivers for their families, and their knowledge and involvement can lead to better health outcomes. Women's healthcare needs and reproductive rights are important aspects of overall public health.
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Political Participation: Women's representation in politics and decision-making processes is essential for a more inclusive and equitable society. When women hold leadership positions, they can advocate for policies that address a broader range of societal issues.
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Social and Community Development: Women are frequently at the forefront of community development and social change initiatives. They are often the ones driving initiatives that improve living conditions, reduce inequality, and promote social justice.
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Peace and Conflict Resolution: Women play a critical role in peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts. Their involvement can lead to more sustainable and inclusive peace processes.
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Environmental Stewardship: Women are often intimately connected to natural resource management, agriculture, and environmental protection. Their involvement is vital for sustainable and responsible environmental practices.
Fundamental principle of social justice and human rights. When women are empowered and included in decision-making processes, it benefits society as a whole. Efforts to advance gender equality and support women's rights contribute to a more just, equitable, and sustainable world. Empowering women is not only the right thing to do but also the smart thing to do for the betterment of society and the planet
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Practice Mains Questions 1."The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) offer a comprehensive framework for addressing global challenges." Discuss the significance of the SDGs in the context of international development. What are the key challenges in their implementation, and how can these challenges be addressed? 2."Gender equality and women's empowerment are integral components of the Sustainable Development Goals." Discuss the progress made in achieving gender-related SDGs and outline the key obstacles in attaining gender equality in society. 3."Women's representation in the field of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is disproportionately low." Examine the challenges faced by women in STEM fields and suggest strategies to enhance women's representation and participation in these sectors. |
