Where Does the Problem Lie – Society, Men’s Behavior, or Ourselves?

The joy of bringing a new life into the world is often overshadowed by fear and insecurity when giving birth to a girl. Many women hesitate to welcome daughters—not out of lack of love but fear of the challenges they may face in a world riddled with inequality, violence, and discrimination. The critical question is: Where does the root of this problem lie? Is it in societal structures, men’s behavior, or perhaps within ourselves?

The Stark Reality Women Face

Statistics paint a grim picture of the struggles women endure. According to the World Health Organization (WHO):

• 1 in 3 women faces sexual assault or domestic violence in their lifetime.

• 58% of women murdered annually are killed by intimate partners or family members.

• Over 433,000 cases of sexual assault and rape are reported annually, including victims as young as 12 and the elderly.

• Alarmingly, only 310 out of every 1,000 cases are reported, meaning over two-thirds go unreported.

• Sexual Harassment: 97% of women aged 18-24 report experiencing harassment in public spaces.

• Workplace Inequality: 1 in 5 women face harassment or unequal pay at work.

• Early Marriage: 12 million girls are married off each year, often leading to early pregnancies and violence.

• Educational Disparity: Over 130 million girls are denied education, limiting opportunities.

• Sexual Violence in Conflict: In war zones, sexual violence is rampant, and victims often lack justice.

• Online Harassment: 23% of women have faced online abuse, affecting mental health and safety.

• Healthcare Inequality: 800 women die daily from preventable pregnancy-related causes.

• Cultural Stigmas: Practices like honor killings and dowry violence trap women in harmful roles.

• Psychological Toll: Violence and discrimination contribute to high rates of depression and anxiety.

These figures highlight not just individual tragedies but a systemic failure to protect and empower women.

The Role of Society

Society has long enabled gender inequality. Cultural norms and patriarchal traditions place the burden of "honor" on women while excusing or justifying harmful behavior in men. Women are often taught from a young age to "dress modestly" and "behave appropriately," as if their safety is solely their responsibility. This mindset fosters victim-blaming and allows perpetrators to escape accountability.

Men’s Behavior: A Critical Factor

While not all men contribute to the problem, a significant number of violent and discriminatory acts are committed by men. Toxic masculinity, ingrained from childhood, fosters entitlement, dominance, and disregard for women’s autonomy. Many men are never taught to view women as equals, perpetuating abuse and control within households and communities.

Our Role in Change

While it’s easy to blame society or men, we must also reflect on our own actions—or inactions. Are we challenging harmful norms or staying silent out of fear or convenience? Are we raising our sons and daughters with equal respect, empowering girls to be strong and boys to be compassionate? Change begins at home, with the values we instill and the conversations we encourage.

The Path Forward

To address the issue holistically, we need:

1. Legal Reforms and Enforcement: Stricter laws and proper implementation to ensure justice for victims.

2. Awareness Campaigns: Educating communities about consent, equality, and the consequences of violence.

3. Support Systems for Women: Safe spaces, counseling, and financial independence programs for victims of abuse.

4. Challenging Patriarchy: Both men and women must actively work to dismantle harmful societal structures that perpetuate inequality.

   
   

Conclusion

The fear women feel about bringing a girl into the world reflects the harsh realities they face daily. The problem isn’t confined to one group or aspect—it is deeply rooted in societal norms, men’s behavior, and our collective willingness to accept or challenge the status quo. Change is possible, but it requires a collective effort. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to create a world where every child—regardless of gender—can grow up free from fear and full of hope.