Gender inequality refers to the roles, responsibilities, and behavioral patterns that society
assigns to women and men. Due to these phenomena, inequality occurs between the genders.
The reason for this inequality can be associated with the adoption of a patriarchal social
structure. While women are generally seen in domestic roles, men are in a more dominant
position in social and economic fields. However, recently, the presence of women has been
increasing in certain areas.
Significant increases are being observed in the education of girls, especially in eastern
regions. Previously, girls were either not educated or were deprived of schools after
graduating from primary education. Additionally, their marriage at a young age was also a
concern. Although such situations continue today, they occur less frequently compared to the
past. Developments in the field of education, the raising of people’s awareness, and girls’
easier access to education are effective in the reduction of these negative situations.
In the labor market, on the other hand, women’s participation in employment is lower
compared to men. According to 2025 TURKSTAT data, the female labor force participation
rate is 36%. This rate is 71.3% for men. In other words, these rates show us that the number of
unemployed women is higher than that of men.” In addition to this, working women receive
lower wages and their access to top positions in their jobs is more limited. This situation
constitutes a significant obstacle for women to gain their economic independence. Therefore,
gender inequality clearly manifests itself in the economic field as well.
In the political field as well, the representation of women is lower compared to men. Female
leaders, female ministers, and female members of parliament are fewer in number compared
to men. For example, while the number of ministers in Turkey is 17, only 1 of these 17
ministers is a woman. This situation shows that women are not sufficiently included in
parliament and decision-making mechanisms. The underrepresentation of women in these
fields leads to the insufficient reflection of social needs and demands. Additionally, violence
against women continues to exist as one of the most serious consequences of gender
inequality.
In order to prevent gender inequality, it is necessary to act together in many areas. First of all,
equality of opportunity in education should be ensured, the schooling rate of girls should be
increased, and their dropping out of education at an early age should be prevented. In working
life, women’s participation in employment should be increased, equal pay for equal work
policies should be implemented, and women should be encouraged to take part in senior
positions. In the legal field, laws must be effectively implemented to prevent violence against
women. In addition, social awareness should be increased and men should also be included in
this process. As a result, society, individuals, and the state must act together to reduce gender
inequality.
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