‘Kvennafrídagurinn’: (‘a women’s day off’ in Icelandic)

The infamous November 1975 strike where Icelandic women took to the streets, challenging systematic exploitation of women and sought for legal protection of their economic and social rights. With over 90% of the women participation, the movement was so historic, it led to the United Nations calling it the International Women’s Year.

According to the Global Gender Gap (World Economic Forum), 2154, is the year a utopian gender equal world turns into reality; 129 years away from the present year that is marked by geopolitical conflicts, economic downturns and human right challenges. At the forefront is Iceland, the only country to have closed the gap over 90%.  This success of Iceland has been in a phased yet holistic manner.

Liberal political philosopher John Locke in his seminal work, ‘Two treatises of Government’, posits that the legitimacy of the State is only sustained when the needs of the people are met and departure from it should be addressed through peaceful revolt. Thus, the threat of transfer of power makes the State answerable to the public. This is a symbol of a democratic government, a timely and responsive Government that takes action to public discontent. Iceland within a year of 1975 strike, sought a law on women wage parity. Creation of a deliberative body appointed by the Ministry of Social Affairs called the Gender Equality Council (with equal number of men and women),institutionalizing women education centers, paid Maternity/Paternity leaves financed from the Government’s social security tax are some of the steps taken leading Iceland to become a frontrunner at gender parity.  

India with its rank 131 of 148 countries is amongst the lowest rank countries in South Asia. But the parameter of this Index is not without challenges. Yet, India can learn from Iceland in creating a system that is accountable and responsive to people’s needs.  A week before the report published, Indian Judiciary made a remarkable step toward gender justice by declaring paid maternal leave a constitutional right that must be honored. Similar assertive steps in implementation of existing laws in education, training, employment and gender-centric crimes will allow ascension of Indian rank in the coming years.

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