Women's empowerment and sustainable development challenges

Abstract

At the outset, the term "empowerment" refers to measures aimed at increasing individuals' and local communities' self-reliance and determination to represent their interests in a responsible and self-determined manner, based on their own authority. It is the process of becoming stronger and more confident, and empowerment as an act refers to the process of self-empowerment and professional support for people, enabling them to overcome feelings of helplessness, lack of influence, and to recognize and utilize their resources to act effectively.

The concept of empowerment originates from American social psychology and is associated with social theorist Julian Rappaport (1981). However, the roots of empowerment theory extend further into history and are linked with Marxist social theory. These social ideas have continued to evolve and refine through the new Marxist theory (also known as critical theory). In the field of social work, empowerment constitutes a practical approach to resource-directed intervention. In civic education and democratic education, empowerment is also seen as a tool to increase citizen responsibility.

It is crucial for all societies to recognize the equality of all individuals and citizens without discrimination based on gender, sex, belief, or appearance and to acknowledge the various roles of women. Women are the builders of nations. Many international treaties have called for an end to discrimination against women in all its forms. All decisions issued by the United Nations General Assembly regarding women's rights advocate for this. These international treaties include the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.