Understanding Turkey's Low Ranking in Gender Gap

Gender gap is a critical measure that evaluates the differences in treatment and opportunities between women and men within societies. Turkey, despite its rich cultural heritage and forward-thinking policies in some areas, has been placed among the countries with a relatively low score in the global gender gap index. This article delves into the reasons behind Turkey's low ranking, focusing on economic participation, political empowerment, and cultural factors.

Economic Participation and Opportunity

Economic Participation and Opportunity pillar is a key component of the gender gap index. It assesses the economic participation and opportunity of women in a country, including outcomes on salaries, participation levels, and access to high-skilled employment. Turkey has struggled in this area, with significant gaps in female workforce participation and access to leadership positions.

Low Female Workforce Participation - Turkey has among the lowest female workforce participation rates in the world. According to the World Economic Forum, in 2013, only 30% of the female population was participating in the labor force, a stark contrast to the 80% participation rate of men. This issue can be attributed to a combination of socio-cultural and economic barriers.

Economic Inequality - Women in Turkey often face wage disparity and are underrepresented in high-paying sectors. A report by the UNDP indicates that in 2001, Turkey ranked 66 out of 70 countries in the Gender Empowerment Measure, capturing inequality in key areas of economic and political participation. This data highlights the persistent wage gaps and underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles within the economy.

Political Empowerment

The Political Empowerment pillar of the gender gap index assesses outcomes on women's representation in decision-making structures. Despite some advancements, particularly in local government, the overall representation of women in Turkey's political landscape remains low.

Low Female Representation in Parliament - While Turkey has taken steps to increase female representation in local government, the national level remains a significant hurdle. According to the World Economic Forum, Turkey ranked 123 out of 136 countries in terms of women’s participation in the labor force in 2013, indicating that women hold less than 30% of the seats in parliament. This low representation is further exacerbated by a lack of access to high leadership roles and decision-making positions.

Attacks and Harassment - Another critical factor affecting women's political empowerment is the high incidence of gender-based attacks and harassment. This not only deters women from pursuing political careers but also hinders the overall progress of women's rights in the country. The BBC reports that women in Turkey face significant challenges, including a lack of freedom to work, travel, and participate in public life.

Cultural and Social Factors

Cultural Conservatism - Turkey's conservative cultural norms play a significant role in its low ranking in the gender gap index. Unlike the West, Turkey retains many traditional practices that limit the rights and opportunities of women. For instance, many women, especially in rural areas, wear headscarves, reflecting their adherence to conservative Islamic beliefs.

Educational Disparities - Women in Turkey, particularly in middle age and older generations, often suffered from educational gaps due to systemic discrimination and societal expectations. These disparities have persisted, impacting women's ability to access higher education and secure better employment opportunities.

Urban and Rural Divide - The countryside and impoverished urban areas are still quite traditional, with many women facing significant obstacles in terms of education, employment, and personal freedom. This divide contributes to the overall low ranking in the gender gap index.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Turkey's low ranking in the global gender gap index is a complex issue with deep social, cultural, and economic roots. Addressing these challenges will require multifaceted approaches, including policy reforms, education initiatives, and cultural shifts to ensure that women can fully participate and be empowered in all aspects of society.