Arthana Pushpalingam

Student at Asian University of Women, Chittagong, Bangladesh

Title: The Social Construction of Women in Asian Countries: A Focus on Sri Lanka

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Biography

Arthana Pushpalingam, is a student at the Asian Women University in Bangladesh. Raised by my mother, She grew up separated from her father and have faced numerous cultural and social barriers imposed by society. Growing up in post-war conditions, She is actively worked with feminists and social workers advocating for rights and gender equality with my mother. Her work includes supporting rural girls who struggle to access education and are often forced into early marriages and motherhood. Her personal experiences with these issues have driven my commitment to fighting for gender equality and women's empowerment.

Abstract

This study explores the social construction of women in Asian countries, with a particular emphasis on Sri Lanka. It aims to analyse how cultural norms, traditional oppression, and male-dominant societal structures shape the roles, expectations, and identities of women. The scope includes historical context, contemporary challenges, and potential future directions for gender equality.

Cultural norms in many Asian societies, including Sri Lanka, often dictate that women adhere to traditional roles cantered around domestic responsibilities and caregiving. These norms are reinforced through religious teachings and societal expectations that prioritize modesty, obedience, and family loyalty in women. Traditional oppression manifests in practices such as dowry, early marriage, and restricted mobility, gender-based violence persist, which significantly limit women's opportunities for education and employment.

In Sri Lanka, the male-dominant society further exacerbates these issues. Men often hold authoritative positions both within the household and in public spheres, leading to systemic gender inequality. Women face substantial barriers in accessing certain education and professional development, and their contributions are frequently undervalued.

The study's methodology involved extensive fieldwork, including interviews with women across different age groups and socio-economic backgrounds in Sri Lanka, as well as a survey of public attitudes towards gender roles. The findings reveal that while there is a growing awareness of gender equality, deeply ingrained cultural norms continue to shape the experiences and opportunities available to women.

The paper concludes by discussing the implications of these findings for policy and practice. It suggests that achieving gender equality in Sri Lanka and other Asian countries requires not only legal reforms but also a concerted effort to challenge and change cultural attitudes and practices that perpetuate gender inequality.