Gender refers to the socially constructed roles, activities and attributes that a particular society considers appropriate for men and women, explains the World Health Organization. The distinct roles, reinforced by legal systems and religion, have historically given rise to gender inequalities not only in health care but with education and employment opportunities. Globalization has challenged the most archaic perceptions of gender roles through books, films and other media; new technologies in satellite television and the internet; policies of multinational corporations and tourism. Human rights groups reach across borders to lend support and inspiration to those in other lands; the United Nations and other international target gender equality as a major goal.

Why “India’s Daughter” Should Be Seen in India

Indian government’s attempt to block the film reinforces the message
Salil Tripathi
March 6, 2015

There’s No Such Thing as Anonymous Data

In sea of credit-card data, researcher identifies most users with dates, locations of four purchases
Scott Berinato
February 13, 2015

Fewer Chinese Than Expected Apply to Have Second Child

China’s one-child policy reduced poverty, keeping the population close to 1.2 billion by 2000
Patti Waldmeir
January 16, 2015

10 Insights From a Decade of Measuring the Gender Gap

Inequality in wages, work, leadership lingers for women around the globe
Saadia Zahidi
November 20, 2014

Chinese Authorities Offer Money for Mixed Marriages

The bonuses, 135 percent of average annual rural incomes, are intended to ease unrest
Jamil Anderlini
September 4, 2014