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Dear
JCTR Bulletin Readers:
In this editorial, we reflect on the plight of women, especially of those deprived of the basic necessities of life and those unable to exercise their potentials and capabilities to live fully. Discussion of the many challenges that women continue to face is absolutely necessary to advance the human rights of all people. At the helm and heart of the myriad of problems facing women are structural inequalities and social hierarchies that are informed by stereotypes and cultural prejudice. Despite challenges faced, in many countries, Zambia inclusive, women have broken through the corridors of power to, for example, occupy ministerial positions and seats in Parliament. The presence of women in the top ranks of various professions, e.g., running businesses, heading financial institutions, etc., has significantly increased. These achievements, while worth celebrating, are too minor compared to the many challenges that women still encounter. Particularly acute is the devastating HIV and AIDS pandemic, which afflicts women in far excess of men, both directly and indirectly.
Worldwide, there is a growing movement that aims to mainstream gender concerns into everyday works of life and government procedures and processes. Enabling factors have put gender mainstreaming on policy agendas, in promoting of women’s rights and gender equality, as evident through a proliferation of women’s networks, trans-national linkages and a growing number of gender sensitive women and men in national and global leadership positions. Such movements must be promoted if women are to fully enjoy their rights. Holy Scripture reminds us to categorically acknowledge that every human person, male or female, is “made in the image and likeness of God” (Genesis 2:27). And therefore, essentially every person has a dignity that no government, institution or document can ever give or take away. But do most families, societies, communities and governments today recognise, respect, protect and promote women’s rights? Do all the families, societies, communities and even nations appreciate the role of women in development? If not, why?
Complete Letter...
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