The Systemic Oppression of Women in Palestine

By Kiera H.

Abstract:
The Palestinian government fails to support an entire group of people in its country. The systemic oppression of women in Palestine is a huge problem. Being a female in Palestine immediately lessens the value of life, due to patriarchal norms that deem women inferior. This paper highlights the political, social and educational lenses of Palestinian women's struggles, while also recognizing the men, women, and governments viewpoints. It also goes over the benefits of political participation and legal reforms, which showed the most effectiveness in addressing Palestinian women's systemic oppression. 

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Summary:

Women in Palestine are treated differently in society due to traditional patriarchal systems that are still present. Palestinian society is biased against women, holding them back. For example, women being immediately subjected into a family life can restrict them from accomplishing other goals. Palestine is not recognizing women in modern times, and since women are traditionally seen as household figures, concerns of the state also commonly disclude them. Women’s social status in Palestine is poor and needs to be updated. 

Women in Palestine’s right to education is commonly interfered with by suppressing factors. Women pursuing academic careers in Palestine can be faced with burdens such as arranged marriage, causing them to drop out of school, and have much lower chances of going to after graduate programs like college. Since education is such a valuable asset to have in life, fair and equal access is extremely important.

Government has a significant impact on people’s everyday life, therefore it needs to be strong. The Palestinian government has a much larger ratio of men than women in office due to the many more challenges women must face before getting there. Having a majority ruling government of men has shown to have negative effects on women's lifestyle and rights in Palestine. In order for changes to take place, there must be a reframing of the Palestinian law system. 

Political participation and legal reforms are necessary factors for improving women's lives in Palestine. When women are able to possess decision-making power in a country, its citizens enjoy a better quality of life, more women will be recognized by the state, and it will help with the law system and decrease domestic violence. With such an undiverse political force, women are being underrepresented. Women in politics will enhance life for citizens by adding new perspectives. Women's representation in politics will also create a spotlight for the everyday struggles they face in Palestine. The government has potential to grow with women's help. A better future for Palestinian women will begin with this solution, and it is necessary to be organized as soon as possible.