Sixteenth International Conference on Environmental, Cultural, Economic & Social Sustainability

Abstract

Achieving gender parity is an essential component in meeting the wide array of challenges needed to create just, robust, and inclusive societies. In 2015, the UN enunciated achieving 17 Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, one of which is SGD#5- Gender Equality, that is not merely a stand-alone goal but is central to the achievement of all 17 SDG’s. Without progress on gender equality, the global community will not only fail to achieve the SDG5, it will also lose the impetus towards achieving the broad 2030 agenda. This research is based on a hypothesis that aims to connect the targets laid by the UN under SDG#5 - 5.4 (Recognize and value unpaid care and domestic work) & 5.5 (Ensure women participation for leadership at all levels of decision-making). The study evaluates the impact of unpaid household responsibilities on women’s leadership in India. Indian women have experienced a low social status for centuries and insistence on the traditional gender roles builds patriarchal inequalities into the structure of Indian society. The study investigates theoretical framework of social construction of gender, unpaid labor, challenges to women leaders, and peace theorist perspective as the core components. The methodology used is qualitative research- comprehensive literature review, accompanied by interviews of representatives of women leaders from various fields within Delhi-National Capital Region. The research concludes by recommending the importance of gender-neutral parenting and education along with government ratified paternal leaves for at least six months and childcare facilities available for both the parents at work place.