Introduction

Gender equality is a fundamental and essential principle in today's society, yet the path to achieving true equality is littered with obstacles. One of the most significant impediments is the failure to hold women to the same level of responsibility and accountability as men. This article explores the true barriers to gender equality and advocates for a equitable responsibility model.

Unequal Responsibility and Accountability

Reconfiguring our approach to gender equality requires addressing the root cause: the inequitable distribution of responsibilities and accountability. Traditionally, women have been expected to shoulder fewer responsibilities and face less accountability, often leading to a perception that gender equality is not necessary. However, this mindset is misguided and perpetuates societal imbalances.

Contrary to prevailing beliefs, true equality requires women to have commensurate responsibilities with their rights. This means that women, like men, should be held accountable for their actions and must bear responsibilities that match their opportunities. For instance, when hiring construction workers, both men and women must fulfill the same labor requirements, regardless of their physical capabilities. Equal responsibilities are a prerequisite for equality.

Challenging Inequities

Arguing that gender equality does not mean physical capability is not a valid excuse. A man working as a construction laborer must meet the same physical standards as his peers. Similarly, women should not be exempt from certain responsibilities solely because of their gender. It is unacceptable to elevate women above men in every aspect, dismissing the unique challenges faced by men due to their physical attributes.

In Australia, the refrain that women are not receiving equal opportunities is often heard. However, this is a misleading narrative. Women do not need support to be equal; they need the same opportunities and responsibilities. The assertion that a Vietnamese immigrant man has more rights or opportunities than an Australian-born woman is not a logical conclusion to support the argument for gender inequality. Rather, the focus should be on examining the benefits women receive and the responsibilities they avoid.

Equality of Opportunity vs. Equality of Outcome

To foster true gender equality, it is essential to focus on opportunity rather than outcome. Equality of opportunity means providing women the same access to resources, education, and job opportunities as men. This approach ensures that everyone has an equal chance to succeed, irrespective of gender.

Equality of outcome, on the other hand, would mean that men and women must achieve identical results. This is often impractical and not a possible goal, as individuals have different strengths, interests, and circumstances. The focus should be on equal opportunities, ensuring that every individual has the support and resources needed to fulfill their potential.

Shared Burdens and Responsibilities

True gender equality is not solely about rights but also about shared burdens. Political leaders and advocates for gender equality must recognize that equality demands equal stakes. Mandatory conscription for women, for example, would level the playing field by requiring both men and women to share in the responsibilities of defense and national service.

A female leader who has never carried the weight and risk of conscription cannot expect the inherent respect of those who have. This disparity is not unnoticed. The looming possibility of conscription has always defined civic duty and tested leaders' legitimacy. By sharing such responsibilities, women can earn the respect and trust of others. True equality requires not only equal rights but also shared burdens.

Conclusion

To achieve true gender equality, it is crucial to focus on equality of opportunity and shared responsibilities. By holding women accountable for their actions and responsibilities, we can foster a more equitable and just society. The journey to gender equality is ongoing and requires a commitment to addressing the underlying barriers and advocating for a fair distribution of responsibilities.