AdminModel Answers to PYQs (2019-2024)
1] Discuss the major recent social movements related to the physical rights of women in various countries of the world. [2024/20m/250w/3a]
Patriarchy has been a universal phenomenon and has dominated human society since antiquity. At its worst, it results in physical harm to the feminine gender, and at times even justifies it as natural. As Rawls suggests, ‘natural principles are neither just nor unjust, it is the responsibility of humans to create a just society for everyone.’
Recently, voicing against sexual harassment in workplace, the #MeToo movement quickly became a global phenomenon. The movement, largely digital, encouraged women to speak out about their experiences of such oppression. It led to high-profile investigations as well as some convictions of powerful men. It spurred legal and workplace reforms in many countries and increased awareness of gender-based violence.
We’ve also witnessed a strong movement for the reproductive rights of women. Starting in Argentina and spreading across Latin America, the Marea Verde (Green Wave) movement has achieved significant victories for reproductive rights. In 2020, after years of advocacy, Argentina legalized abortion up to 14 weeks, setting a precedent in Latin America. This was followed by the decriminalisation of abortion by the Mexican Supreme Court.
In the Middle East, against the compulsory wearing of hijab, there have also been such attempts. However, in a highly patriarchal society like Iran and Afghanistan, these movements are not gaining traction. The recent voluntary stripping by a college girl in Iran is a case in point, but such efforts are scanty and weak.
The evolving international nature of such feminine movements illustrates the growing solidarity among women worldwide. However, grassroots activism must be complemented by empowering women through education, technology, and representation. This will ensure that these movements translate into lasting change. [272 words]
2] Give an assessment of the feminist critique of contemporary global issues. [2017/10m/150w/1e]
Women’s voices are rarely heard in the masculinist theory of international politics. Nevertheless, they are deeply affected by the decision of their leaders. Almost 90% of world causalities in today’s wars are civilian and women & children make most of them.
Feminist scholars ask us to put a gender-sensitive lens and look at the world. They are not satisfied with framing international politics solely in terms of inter-state relations. They suggest taking a micro look with an individual at the centre. They are concerned about the absence of women leadership and the articulation of women’s concerns in international politics.
Liberal feminists believe that women’s equality can be achieved by removing legal obstacles that deny women the same opportunities as men.
Post-modernist feminists are concerned about the knowledge-power connection. They suggest that men are generally seen as knowers and as subjects of knowledge. This influences how we see global politics.
Post-colonial feminists criticize Western feminists for basing feminist knowledge on Western women’s lives. They suggest that women’s subordination should be differentially understood in terms of race, class and geographical location.
Despite their differences, the feminist critiques of contemporary global issues have made a significant contribution to our understanding of these issues. They have challenged the status quo and helped to raise awareness of the need for gender equality. [217 words]
