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April General Meeting
Mr. Anan mentioned that he was "ashamed" of how women are treated in Bangladesh, particularly at the prevalence of violence against women. Violence against women includes: 1) domestic violence - almost 40 percent of violent acts against women are perpetuated by husbands, in addition to violence caused by the husband’s family; 2) trafficking and prostitution - an estimated 200,000 women have been abducted and taken to neighbouring countries in the last ten years; and 3) acid throwing. The treatment of women is rooted in tradition, and the almost absolute power men exercise over women. Despite changing times and lifestyles, most men are reluctant to relinquish this traditional power structure, as they see according women more rights leads to a loss of their own rights and power— although this is not really true. And women often lack the power to initiate change. This can be due to either economic dependence and vulnerability or through family and peer pressure. Mr. Anan noted that even though upper and middle class families have been exposed to egalitarian values, their treatment of women is not much different from that of poorer families. He gave his own extended family as an example. Family members have wanted his daughters to become the wives of prosperous and successful men, and mothers. But for boys, the wishes were for them to become doctors, lawyers, businessmen etc. Even though the family loves the girls as much as the boys, cultural attitudes, such as the concept of "boy-work, girl-house", is so deeply ingrained that they cannot look at it otherwise. Mr. Anan felt strongly that there was more need for continued and increasing activism and awareness building for women’s rights. Changing the school curriculum to stop the typical depiction of female and male roles in the kitchen and the office (UNICEF has produced some good cartoon characters for this) is important. Economic development is also an important factor. Countries which have made progress economically also experienced an improved social status for women. Women in Bangladesh voted in record numbers in both 1996 and 2001. But they have not yet used their voting power as a lobby for special rights. This may be a possibility in the future. Women are now admitted to the Army and must make up at least 30% of representation in unions. Mr. Anan felt that Grameen Bank’s activities were a breakthrough in demonstrating that women in Bangladesh can be good investors and decision makers. Compared to men, women more frequently make choices that benefit the family as a whole. He requested that all of us at least make the effort to get our own sons to do household chores and help in the kitchen so that they will be enlightened citizens in the future. Many of us will no doubt take this to heart, because most of us realize that we haven’t been making that effort! He also gave a word of advice to women wanting to change the dynamics with their husbands. A man, however loving, will not voluntarily give up power that he already has—but he may change if you persist with subtle words everyday. Mr. Anan’s presentation was followed by a lively discussion session, which unfortunately had to be cut short as it was lunch time. Thanks to the Hotel Lake Castle for the good food and to the members who attended despite the short notice! |
