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WOMEN AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Violence
One of the greatest threats to women is violence. There are many types of violence against women. These include incest, rape, sexual harassment, murder, battering, kidnapping, psychological torture, female infanticide, dowry deaths and suttee (the burning of the widow on the husbands funeral pyre) (Asian and Pacific Women's Resource and Action Series - Health). Such violence indicates the unequal power relationship between men and women. Violence continues to be directed at women because many societies view women as acceptable targets.
More and more incidents of violence against women are being reported. Still, it is estimated that for every rape that is reported, 10 go unreported out of fear for the consequences (Asian and Pacific Women's Network Resource and Action Series - Health). Similarly, much domestic violence goes unreported. It is often viewed as a private matter that need not be addressed outside of the home. Rather than opposing this violence, many share the view that women are the property of men and may be disciplined as such. Many of the messages in the media reinforce this belief. Laws are only beginning to recognize the right of women to live safely with freedom from violence. Violence against women stands in the way of their equal participation in all parts of society.
Statistics on women remain largely unchanged. Violence is increasing. Wages continue to be less than those of men. Illiteracy is still very high. Access to contraception is still limited in many parts of the world. The media and many cultures continue to view women in terms of unfair stereotypes and outdated expectations. Women themselves continue to play dual, if not triple or quadruple, roles as mothers, educators, providers and consumers.
These roles need to be recognized and valued. Opportunities for women need to keep increasing in areas where they have previously been excluded. These and other "rights" must be protected and respected. Anything else, could hardly be considered sustainable.