Gender equality is indeed the most common problem around the world. In fact, this issue discusses the equal position of men and women in doing anything without discrimination.
But, have you ever heard of a country that has an equal and fair level equality of gender between men and women? Iceland is a country that upholds this social issue around the world. In fact, Iceland is also the first country to highly value gender equality.
Then, how can the Icelandic government overcome the problem of equality between men and women there? Here is a brief review of Iceland being the world’s best country in terms of “equality” for all gender that can add to your knowledge information!
A Brief History of Gender Equality
Gender equality is an understanding in which the level of responsibility between men and women is equal, with no exceptions. Where the issue of gender is still very often found everywhere. With this social issue, everyone has the same opportunity. equality or equality indicates the same level, the same position, not higher or not lower between one another.
It can be said that equality of gender also provides equal rights and opportunities between men and women regardless of caste or gender.
Iceland Best Country for Gender Equality
The level of equality all gender in Iceland is the center of public attention, because this country gives equal rights regardless of whether he is male or female. Even the equality that exists in Iceland also provides a real example to the world that men and women are the same and they should not be distinguished.
According to a survey conducted by the Global Gender Gap Index issued by the Economic Forum, Iceland became the first country to pioneer gender equality. The Icelandic government provides equal rights, opportunities and positions for men and women without favor.
Meanwhile, the level of gender equality in Indonesia was ranked 85th out of 153 countries surveyed in 2019, then in 2021 it further decreased to 101st out of 156 countries. This situation is quite concerning for the position between men and women.
The indicators used in ranking countries according to gender equality are assessed by economic participation and opportunities, health and survival, educational achievement, and political empowerment. So, gender equality is not only about moral issues, but also includes economic development.
The Icelandic Government’s Efforts for the Country’s Gender Equality
Gender equality in Iceland is also one of the centers of attention for many countries in the world. Many countries are also highlighting the efforts made by the Icelandic government.
As for some breakthroughs to equalize gender in Iceland, the government has given exclusive paternity leave and equal pay between men and women, providing equal opportunities in education and employment opportunities. Of course, the existence of paternity leave has the aim of providing time for men to care for children and take care of the house.
The Icelandic government has also changed notions of masculinity or femininity and manhood and womanhood that have been based on rigid gender stereotypes. Iceland has also introduced a policy of eliminating the income gap between men and women. The income gap is considered an act of discrimination against women. This discrimination has been prohibited by Icelandic law since 1961.
It is this support from the government and society that makes Iceland a good country for women and young children. This country has also provided rights and justice for women, because there are still many countries out there that provide differentiation and discrimination against women.
Unlike Iceland, which has a day of paternity leave, Indonesia currently has special leave for menstruating and pregnant women. This is proof that Indonesia is currently trying to improve the order of gender equality.
The purpose of gender equality is to empower people – women and men – to lift themselves out of poverty and improve their lives. Then, this social issue is also very important to strengthen the country’s ability to develop, reduce poverty, and govern effectively.
This is a brief review of the country of Iceland, which is a pioneer of gender equality and women’s justice around the world. Yes, equality for all gender is very important. So, start with yourself by recognizing that all people and genders have equal rights and opportunities.
