EMPOWERING WOMEN - POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN SOUTH ASIAN COUNTRIES

'Women are the owners of half of the sky.' - Chinese Proverb

- Dr. Santhosh Mathew

International Women's Day, celebrated annually on March 8th, serves as a global platform to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women while also highlighting the challenges they face. In South Asian countries, women's political participation has been a pivotal aspect of the struggle for gender equality. As we commemorate International Women's Day, it is crucial to examine the progress, obstacles, and the role of women in shaping political landscapes in nations like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan.

International Women's Day traces its roots back to the early 20th century when women around the world began advocating for their rights and equality. The day's origins are often associated with the labour and socialist movements, with the first National Women's Day organized by the Socialist movement in the United States in 1909. Inspired by this, the International Women's Conference in Copenhagen in 1910 proposed the establishment of an annual Women's Day, leading to the first International Women's Day being celebrated in 1911.

The initial focus of International Women's Day was on demanding better working conditions, suffrage rights, and an end to discrimination. Over the years, the day evolved into a global celebration recognizing the achievements of women across various fields while highlighting persisting challenges, including gender-based violence, economic disparities, and limited political representation.

South Asian countries have a rich history of women actively participating in socio-political movements. From the Indian independence movement led by figures like Sarojini Naidu to the more recent political achievements of women like Benazir Bhutto in Pakistan, the region has witnessed the gradual but significant inclusion of women in political spheres.