Gender Inequality In The Middle East

The Middle East is full of customs, traditions and a strong religious presence. These traditions and customs have been seen from the beginning of civilization. They impact all aspects of life, in particular women. Women have been subjected to gender inequality, persecution and isolation. Their role was bear and rear children. They placed last within the family structure, and were known to be dominated by the males of the house hold. They had minimal legal rights, minimal sexual gratification and lacked positions of authority. But times are changing, and women are slowly gaining rights and smashing stereotypes. Women have, and are continuing to attempt to break through barriers and have their voices heard. Women are now holding positions

One misconception is the idea that the Islamic faith condones gender inequality. In reality this is just a stereotype that was placed on the women. Women in the Middle East have a lot of the same gender inequalities that is seen worldwide (). Women all over the world are continuing to stand up and fight for what they believe is fair and what they are entitled too. One thing to consider when trying to understand the disadvantages that Middle Eastern women face, is first to understand the reasoning behind their inequalities. They are based on tradition and culture, not religion. On the contrary, the Islamic religion is open minded (unintelligible) and actually offers the men as women the equal rights to education. This allows women to advance in their careers, changes their status and opens opportunities to hold positions of authority (Conan 2010). A prime of example of this can be seen in Palestine. Previously 2 women have been appointed judges in a male dominated society (Associated Press 2009). This has opened the door wide open for other women. But the opportunities for women doesn’t stop there. Women have also been presidential candidates, police officers and even suicide bombers (Associated Press 2009). All though Khuloud Faqih and Asmahan Wudheidi made history becoming the first women judges in the Palestinian territories, this does not mean that

Some true, some exaggerated, and some misinterpreted. All women in the Middle East are said to follow strict traditions and cultures, and subject their self to the Islam Religion. With this being said, one would think if we were to visit the Middle East, the women would be covered, quiet and obedient to their male counterpart, but things are changing. Women are starting to find their voices, protesting and demanding equality. They are starting to come together and fight for their rights. Women are starting to be seen in the workforce and holding positions of authority. They are working as law enforcers, political candidate’s and even judges. Some are becoming unveiled, and even dressing modernly. They are getting divorces, receiving inheritances and even filing for divorces. Not only are they showing they are strong and influential, they are also using their new found confidence and voices to become political leaders. They are demonstrating they have authority by using their voices and hitting the streets as well media to be heard. They are continuing to be vocal, and continue to strive for what they are entitled too, while staying true to their tradition, culture and