Submission Date
4-29-2019
Document Type
Paper
Department
Gender & Women’s Studies
Second Department
International Relations
Adviser
Rebecca Evans
Second Adviser
Abigail Kluchin
Committee Member
Rebecca Evans
Committee Member
Abigail Kluchin
Committee Member
Julin Everett
Department Chair
Rebecca Evans
Department Chair
Abigail Kluchin
Project Description
National security measures are often framed from a masculinist, hegemonic viewpoint, determining that the wellbeing of a state and its citizens is dependent on protection by a patriarchal government. This paper argues that the health and strength of a country and its citizens are better promoted through a focus on human security, defined by the United Nations as the right of all people to live in freedom and dignity, free from poverty and despair. Moreover, a gendered approach to human security is necessary to advance economic development, personal security and freedom from violence. Nonetheless, women all over the world are valued less than men, especially in political and economic spheres. This project explores the cultural, economic and political roles of women in India and South Korea, observing how and why these roles have changed, with an emphasis on both progress and continued obstacles to gender equity. As countries with contrasting levels of economic development and different political histories, India and South Korea offer excellent insight into the ways in which a traditionally masculinist approach to national security and economic development affects women’s rights and women’s representation.
Recommended Citation
Backelin-Harrison, Anika, "Politics, Protest and Patience: Gendered Rights and Human Security in India and South Korea" (2019). Gender, Women’s, and Sexuality Studies Honors Papers. 2.
https://digitalcommons.ursinus.edu/gender_hon/2
