Globalization And Women: Challenges And Opportunities

Abstract

There is growing evidence illustrating means in which a substantial number of women have been adversely affected by globalization, both absolutely as well as in relation to men.  Women have also been more adversely affected during the increasing number of financial crisis generated by globalization while being disadvantaged by cuts in social protection.  Women are more in danger in confronting the new global challenges.  For example, they are disproportionately affected by different diseases, particularly AIDS. According to the UNAIDS epidemic update of 2003, 58 percent of HIV victims are female, and among the teenagers affected, 75 percent are girls.  This paper will try to address the above issues while also discussing various positive impacts of globalization arguing that for many women, globalization has improved their economic and social status. Since people are most directly affected by globalization through their work and employment, many women workers have been absorbed into the global production system while wage employment has helped increase their incomes giving them greater potential economic independence and often raising their social status.