During this course, we have spent a great deal of time discussing the importance of gender equality, not just in politics, but several arenas. Despite the importance of fairness in general, what are the benefits of gender equality in politics, the economy, and within society as a whole?
This article provides a list of these benefits,
which I think only serve as supporting a need for gender equality. Sweden’s
Prime Minister, Fredrik Reinfeldt, addressed the United Nations addressing
these benefits.
Worldwide, women perform 66% of the work and produce
50% of the food, therefore allowing women to achieve equal socioeconomic status
will not only allow for better development, but will also improve economic
growth.
Research shows that when women have more control
over household incomes, more money is spent on children’s needs including
“food, health and education.” Of course,
more monies being traded in the market results in a growing economy.
Finally, allowing women to fully participate in
society, especially in politics, has demonstrated that institutions have
experienced both better results for the public good and less corruption.
This is only a few of the external benefits
Reinfeldt has cited for women playing equal roles, and I’m certain there are
many more, but these alone are significant in themselves.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp/story.asp?NewsID=39747&Cr=gender+equality&Cr1=#.U1F0wlcvB14
It's interesting how people start listening when you begin talking about how equality can make an ECONOMIC impact, not just a social one. Sure, equality for women is "right" and "just", BUT it also brings in more money?! Now they are listening lol. I like how he listed out the tangible benefits. I think it's a smart way to get political leaders to pay attention to possible differences that policy changes could make in their own country
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