An Analysis of Widowhood in India: A Global Perspective
Pages : 45-58Download PDF
Widows are more than victims; they are mothers, caregivers and heads of households. Widows of all ages and their children should be treated as full and equal citizens and their rights should be protected. National laws and policies should be guided by the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. UN Women advocates for the empowerment of widows everywhere and supports this in Asia, Africa and Latin America. We work in partnership with widows’ organizations so widows can live free of stigma and discrimination, with dignity, rights and economic independence, and have a voice in decisions that affect their lives in the household and the public sphere. This is part of our broader work to support women’s economic empowerment, political leadership and participation, women’s role in peace and security, ending violence against women and girls, and gender-responsive budgeting.
Keywords: Patriarchy, Physical abuse, Psychological trauma, Discrimination against widows Patrilineal