It's Tough Being a Girl: Where Rights are the Worst

​In history, men have always been the first to gain rights. For example, in America, on August 18, 1920, women were granted suffrage rights. This was a big step in American history, however, it took a long time to achieve. In fact, the American Women's Rights Movement began in 1848. It is weakening to know that it took a mere 72 years to gain female voting rights in America. However, so many women around the world don’t even have rights to leave their house. In this sense, America is “ahead of the game” in regards to female rights

Women from America fighting during the Women's Rights Movement.

CNN recently released an article, talking about the five places in the world that female’s struggle the most, in regards to rights, and status. Yemen is ranked the worst, followed by Pakistan, Syria, Chad, and Iran. ​

A group of women in Yemen, fighting for equal rights.

​There are a few major and blaring reasons in which a country, such as Yemen, has the worst ranking in the world for female rights. Some of the most prominent issues are access to hygiene, educational rights, family and community morals, war torn areas, and sexual harassment. Something so simple such as hygiene may be taken for granted by most females. However, it is essential that "little things" such as this are not taken so lightly. In these countries where women do not have a proper access to hygiene, most girls suffer from diseases that could end up killing them.

​Another trend that can be seen throughout many countries who don't give girls proper rights, is the denial to access of education. “Research has shown that girls' education can impact entire nations, as better-educated young women tend to earn more money, be healthier, have fewer children, be more politically active and emphasize health care and education for the next generation.” (CNN) Role models such as Malala fight this issue daily. Because of girls like Malala, a change can be seen, but it is important that more people stand up and fight against it!

One final issue that must be touched upon is sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is a problem that so many girls across the world face, no matter where they live. While this may be the case, the number of victims is increased in countries that do not view females as equal citizens.

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The CNN article raises awareness regarding the pressing issues that women from all around the world face daily. It is essential that the gaps between females and males are closed up, and equality is achieved. Organizations such as She’s The First, Girl Up, and the Malala Fund, are examples of those who are fighting to close up this gap. By fighting for voting rights, free speech, and equal access to education, the overall goal of equal rights becomes more achievable.

Malala Yousafzai, a female rights activist.

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Sources:
https://steemit.com/history/@sarahben/the-fight-for-women-s-rights-in-the-united-states-history
https://www.borgenmagazine.com/rights-yemeni-women-suffering-due-poverty/
https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-malala-yousafzai-on-her-critics-western-feminism-and-the-role-of-men/
https://www.cnn.com/2016/10/11/health/gender-inequality-worst-countries/index.html