The role of rural women in strengthening the family economy and their social rights ✍️ Hisham Mahmoud Suleiman…former Secretary General of the Commission on Human Rights
the introduction:-
Rural women play a vital role in the family economy by contributing to agriculture, animal husbandry, household management and food provision. However, they suffer from low social appreciation and frequent violations, which exposes them to psychological and social pressures. an increase in divorce cases. In this article, I discuss the economic role of rural women and the reasons for the challenges they face and propose solutions to strengthen their rights.
The role of rural women in the family economy: –
1. Agricultural and pastoral work
Rural women are mainly involved in growing crops and caring for animals, which directly contributes to improving family and community food security.
It contributes to the management of natural resources such as water and agricultural land and plays an essential role in preserving the environment.
2. Family responsibilities
She cares for the children, cooks and organizes the home, which provides a stable environment that supports the family economically and socially.
3. Artisanal production
She works in domestic industries, such as carpet making, utensils and spinning, which help increase family income.
Challenges faced by rural women:-
1. Low social esteem
The local community often underestimates the value of her work, considering her only responsible for household chores without recognizing her economic contribution.
2. Family violations: –
Rural women are exposed to physical and psychological violence due to patriarchal societal traditions
Lack of knowledge of her rights makes her an easy victim of domestic violence
3. Low access to education and services
High rates of illiteracy among rural women limit their opportunities to improve their situation
The lack of health and social services increases their suffering
4. Increase in divorce cases
Societal neglect and economic pressures lead to an escalation of family conflict, which increases divorce rates.
Lack of social and economic support makes divorced rural women vulnerable to poverty and exclusion.
How to promote the rights of rural women: –
1. Community Awareness
Launch awareness campaigns to highlight the role of rural women in the economy and the family. In this context, the Human Rights Commission should carry out campaigns to increase awareness of women's rights, according to Mandit. The Commission should cooperate with organizations working in this area, such as. as well as promoting concepts of gender equality in schools and local communities.
2. Support education and training
Provide education and vocational training opportunities for rural women to enable them to acquire new skills and increase their economic independence
3. Strict legislation to protect it
Strengthen laws that protect women from domestic violence and guarantee their rights to work and inheritance
Establish local mechanisms to receive complaints from rural women
And solve it quickly
On the one hand, funding agencies should work on this point
Empowering women economically
Provide small loans and grants to finance small projects managed by rural women
Support agricultural and artisanal cooperative programs that allow women to market their products
4. Provide basic services
Improve access to educational health services and basic infrastructure in rural areas
Create psychological and social support centers that provide assistance to affected women
5. Strengthen women's participation in decision-making
Encourage rural women to get involved in local councils and community organizations to strengthen their voice in policy-making
Conclusion:-
Rural women are a pillar of support for the family and community economy, but the low recognition of their role and the violation of their rights constitute major challenges that must be addressed.
Through legislative awareness and economic empowerment, the conditions of rural women can be improved and their respect in society enhanced, which contributes to family stability and strengthening of the social fabric.
