The year 2024 has been marked by both significant progress and alarming setbacks for female leadership and activism around the world, with key events showcasing the complex nature of gender equality movements.
Namibia's political scene saw transformative change with the election of its first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Her election was celebrated as a historic milestone for the nation, reflecting strides toward female empowerment on the African continent. Yet, contrasting this achievement, the United States faced its own challenges, as the U.S. electoral mood returned skepticism toward its female politicians. Despite the impressive status of Kamala Harris as Vice President, whispers of disappointment surfaced as the Democratic Party continued its complicated relationship with openly supporting its female leadership.
Globally, the legislative environment for women fluctuated dramatically. France made headlines by constitutionalizing abortion as a fundamental right, solidifying bodily autonomy for women and girls. This moment was heralded as part of France's commitment to upholding gender equality. Meanwhile, Iraq's proposed legislation to lower the legal marriage age for girls to nine stirred outrage and underscored the harsh realities many women face, potentially harming their autonomy and future.
Other pivotal moments occurred within various nations grappling with gender issues. The Gambia's parliament recently rejected amendments to repeal the 2015 law banning female genital mutilation, showcasing perseverance from activists and lawmakers against this harmful practice. The rejection was seen as not only preserving women's rights but also marking progress against societal norms entrenched for generations.
Inside Kenya, President William Ruto took a rare stance against gender violence by publicly addressing the issue of femicide. He pledged Sh100 million toward combating this grave social ill, signaling recognition of femicide as a significant issue. Ruto’s acknowledgment was significant; recognizing femicide’s existence is the first step toward addressing it.
While many forms of activism continue, personal stories also take center stage. No story captured this reality more compellingly than Gisèle Pelicot's. After being drugged and raped by her husband, who involved over 50 men over ten years, Pelicot refused to hide her identity or story during the trial. Her bravery to speak out and shift the shame back to her abuser spoke volumes about reclaiming power from violent narratives.
Back on the U.S. front, as President Biden's tenure nears its end, over 100 House Democrats rallied to urge him to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) as the 28th amendment to the Constitution. The lawmakers espoused the belief this action would bolster gender equality under U.S. law. "Solidifying your legacy on equal rights with a final action on the ERA would be a defining moment for the historic Biden-Harris administration and your presidency," they wrote, confronting the growing threats to reproductive freedom and civil rights.
The push for the ERA is reflective of both hope and urgency among lawmakers and constituents, especially amid rising concerns about gender rights. “We were hoping to be progressing forward on gender equality and women’s rights, but we are going backward,” stated Representative Cori Bush, expressing frustration with the more regressive approach seen during Biden’s presidency.
Notably, the ERA campaign has received overwhelming public support. A 2020 Pew Research Center study revealed 78% of Americans backing inclusion of the amendment. With state-level moves visible, Nevada and New York have taken proactive steps to reinforce state-level ERAS' significance, marking regional advances toward gender equality.
The year proved to be one of upheaval, yet it was also full of activism, marked by resilience against the odds, showcasing the contradicting experiences of women across different societies. Progress may sometimes feel halted, but the spirit of advocacy persists. With voices like Pelicot's and legislation like the ERA gaining traction, optimism remains for the future of gender equality.
Reflecting upon 2024 reveals a dual narrative of advancement and resistance, emphasizing the necessity of tireless advocacy to challenge convention and protect women's rights worldwide. With leaders like Nandi-Ndaitwah rising to power, and the voices of activists continuing to influence legislation, the next year carries the promise of hope amid uncertainty—an indicator of shifting tides and growing momentum for gender equality.
