Women have faced numerous challenges in recent times, and it is crucial to acknowledge and support them in their struggles. The pandemic has significantly impacted women, with many losing their jobs and facing economic instability. The short time work allowance and increase in paid time sick release have been helpful, but there is still a long way to go. The child bonus and increase in child benefits have been a step in the right direction in terms of providing economic stability to families. However, the gender gap in working hours has increased, and there has been a reduced time for caring for others.
Climate change has also disproportionately affected women and girls in the global south. It is essential to involve women in the 2030 agenda and the German sustainability efforts as they make up half of society and possess valuable expertise.
In terms of work, women continue to earn 7% less than men, and the Pay Transparency Act of 2017 has been helpful but not enough. The taxable 5% rate is also higher for women, and there is a need to introduce requirements for federal governments and businesses to ensure equal representation by 2025, especially in supreme court cases. The Childbirth Act has been instrumental in providing paternity leave, and there is a need to address elderly relative care and sexual reproductive self-determination rights.
The issue of violence against women and human trafficking also requires urgent attention. The German Institute for Human Rights has highlighted the need for reliable data on violence against women and trafficking and the implementation of general acts of equal treatment. Reliable and permanent funding for support, counseling, and sheltering is crucial, and the legal framework needs to be commended. Migrant women, live-in care workers, and those with disabilities also require support and assistance.
From the perspective that neutrality is another form of discrimination, the principle of state neutrality can be seen as allowing for selective gatekeeping. Proponents of state legislation restricting the headscarf argue that it is necessary to ensure the neutrality of the teaching environment and public services. However, this argument can be viewed as discriminatory since it targets a specific religious symbol and limits the religious expression of a particular group. Some Church representatives and politicians justify privileging Christianity in restrictions, claiming that it is an integral part of German culture and value system. This logic is problematic as it favors one religion over another, and religious symbols are not considered a threat if they are cultural rather than religious. Additionally, some argue that neutrality hinders the integration of Muslim women in Germany since it sends a signal that their religious expression is not welcome.
It seems like there are the right initiatives at face value but little action follows these initiatives. There are also concerns over the discussion of the definition of intersectionality, what it includes, and how it is defined.
Women have faced numerous challenges, and it is crucial to acknowledge and support them. Addressing these issues requires a collective effort from governments, businesses, and society at large to ensure equal representation, economic stability, and support for those in need.
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