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Social inequality: Gender inequality
Group Members: Gulchehra Kamilova, Muslima Lutfullayeva,
Xumoyun Karimov, Ibrohim Islomov.
Webster University in Tashkent
GLBC 1200: Global Cornerstone Seminar
Professor Svetlana Kurbanova
November 24, 2024
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Gender inequality is a global issue, affecting billions across all regions and sectors. It manifests
through unequal pay, limited access to education, marginalization in leadership, and persistent
gender-based violence. Despite decades of advocacy and reform, progress remains slow,
particularly in regions with entrenched cultural norms and systemic barriers.
In Uzbekistan, even with legislative measures in place to address gender based inequalities, deep
sets of traditional norms often stand in the way of any meaningful gains. To investigate this
issue, our team spoke with expatriates working at private schools in Tashkent, including WIST
and the Canadian School, in order to get their views on local gender relations. They show how
gender discrimination plays out within the framework of education and culture, in particular,
how it experienced within the external viewpoint.
This report examines the historical and global context of gender inequality, identifies key
stakeholders, and assesses the current situation in Uzbekistan. By analyzing existing solutions
and proposing targeted recommendations, we aim to contribute to the ongoing discourse on
gender equity. Our central thesis argues that gender inequality is deeply entrenched but can be
addressed through a combination of policy reforms, educational initiatives, and grassroots
movements. Addressing this issue is not only a moral imperative but also critical for sustainable
societal and economic development.
Gender inequality has deep historical roots, influenced by societal structures that have
traditionally placed men in positions of power and privilege. Globally, women only began to
gain voting rights in the 20th century, with landmark achievements such as the passage of the
19th Amendment in the U.S. in 1920 and universal suffrage in many European countries post-
World War II. Despite these advancements, systemic barriers persist, particularly in education,
employment, and political representation.
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In Uzbekistan, gender roles have been historically shaped by a combination of Islamic traditions
and Soviet-era policies. The Soviet period saw women entering the workforce and gaining access
to education, but traditional roles as caretakers and homemakers remained dominant. Following
independence in 1991, Uzbekistan faced new challenges as it sought to balance modernization
with deeply ingrained cultural norms. Policies promoting gender equality, such as quotas for
women in parliament, but implementation has been inconsistent.
Globally, gender inequality remains a pressing concern. According to UN Women, women earn
only 77 cents for every dollar earned by men, and women hold fewer than 25% of parliamentary
seats worldwide. In Uzbekistan, challenges include a lack of women in leadership positions and
disparities in access to higher education, particularly in rural areas. The insights from expatriates
in Tashkent highlight both progress and ongoing challenges, emphasizing the importance of
cultural and systemic change.
Addressing gender inequality involves multiple stakeholders:
• Governments implement policies promoting gender equity, such as quotas for women in
leadership roles.
• International organizations as UN Women and the World Bank provide funding and expertise
for gender-focused programs.
• Corporations introduce diversity initiatives and equal pay policies.
• NGOs and grassroots movements advocate for women’s rights and provide direct support to
affected communities.
• Local communities play a crucial role in challenging cultural norms and promoting equity.
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Globally, gender inequality manifests in unequal access to resources, education, and
employment. Regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa face high rates of child marriage, while
developed nations struggle with gender wage gaps and underrepresentation in leadership roles.
In Uzbekistan, the issue is most visible in rural areas, where traditional norms often limit
women’s opportunities. Urban settings, such as Tashkent, show progress, particularly in private
institutions like WIST and the Canadian School. However, expatriates interviewed noted a
disparity between rhetoric and action, with cultural expectations often sidelining women despite
formal commitments to equality.
Major barriers include:
• Cultural resistance to gender equality initiatives, particularly in conservative societies.
• Economic limitations that restrict women’s participation in the workforce.
• Political controversies over reforms, such as quotas or affirmative action.
• Social biases that perpetuate unequal treatment in homes and workplaces.
Globally, gender inequality manifests in unequal access to resources, education, and
employment. Regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa face high rates of child marriage, while
developed nations struggle with gender wage gaps and underrepresentation in leadership roles.
In Uzbekistan, the issue is most visible in rural areas, where traditional norms often limit
women’s opportunities. Urban settings, such as Tashkent, show progress, particularly in private
institutions like WIST and the Canadian School. However, expatriates interviewed noted a
disparity between rhetoric and action, with cultural expectations often sidelining women despite
formal commitments to equality.
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Solutions:
Globally, efforts to address gender inequality include:
• Legislation: Equal pay laws and anti-discrimination policies in many countries.
• Education initiatives: Programs targeting girls’ education, particularly in developing nations.
• Corporate diversity programs: Promoting women’s leadership and closing pay gaps.
In Uzbekistan, government quotas aim to increase female representation in parliament. However,
expatriates noted that these measures often lack enforcement and fail to address underlying
cultural biases.
Our group proposes the following solutions:
1. Policy Changes: Strengthen enforcement of existing gender equality laws and introduce
penalties for non-compliance.
2. Educational Programs: Develop school curricula that promote gender equity and challenge
stereotypes.
3. Grassroots Movements: Encourage local women-led initiatives to advocate for equal rights
and opportunities.
4. Technological Advancements: Create online platforms to provide women with resources for
education, networking, and entrepreneurship.
Implementing these solutions requires overcoming cultural resistance and securing funding.
However, starting with small-scale pilot programs in urban areas, such as private schools, can
demonstrate success and build public support.
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Gender inequality raises significant ethical concerns, particularly regarding its disproportionate
impact on marginalized groups. Women in rural areas, for example, often face compounded
discrimination due to economic and cultural barriers. Expatriates interviewed highlighted the
stark contrast between opportunities available to urban women in Tashkent and their native city.
If left unaddressed, gender inequality perpetuates cycles of poverty, limits societal progress, and
undermines human rights. Ethically, governments and organizations have a duty to ensure
equity, not only by addressing systemic barriers but also by promoting inclusive practices. Our
proposed solutions prioritize equity by focusing on education and grassroots movements that
empower marginalized communities. By fostering collaboration between local and international
stakeholders, these solutions aim to ensure that all groups benefit equally.
Gender inequality is a complex and deeply rooted issue with global and local implications. This
report has examined its historical context, key stakeholders, and current challenges while
proposing practical solutions, including policy changes, educational programs, and grassroots
initiatives. Insights from expatriates in Tashkent highlight both progress and areas requiring
urgent attention.
Addressing gender inequality is not only an ethical imperative but also critical for sustainable
development. By promoting equity and inclusivity, societies can unlock the full potential of their
populations, driving social and economic progress. The time to act is now, ensuring a fairer and
more equitable future for all.
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References
UN Women. (2022). Progress of Gender Equality: Global Reports.
World Bank. (2023). Gender Data Portal.
Interviews conducted with teachers at WIST and Canadian School, Tashkent.
