by admin | Mar 28, 2023 | Uncategorized
Men have higher rates of lung cancer. Much of the responsibility for this can be dedicated to unhealthy gender roles that have traditionally encouraged men to smoke at higher rates. Smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer, and men have been marketed tobacco products more aggressively and have been socially conditioned to view smoking as a sign of masculinity. Additionally, men have been observed to be less likely than women to seek preventive health care and more likely to delay seeking medical attention when symptoms appear, which can also contribute to higher rates of lung cancer and other health problems.
Additionally, occupational exposure to cancer-causing agents, such as asbestos and other chemicals, is often higher among men who work in certain industries. These factors, combined with a greater overall rate of exposure to environmental toxins, can increase a man’s risk of developing lung cancer. However, it is important to note that there are also many other factors that can contribute to lung cancer, including genetics and other lifestyle factors.
While the risk posed by occupational exposure and genetics is almost uncontrollable, the proportion at risk due to societal standards can definitely be averted. Although a number of socioeconomic and psychological factors play role in increasing the rate of lung cancer among men, unhealthy gender stereotypes stand at the top of the list. Encouraged either directly by peers or indirectly through social norms, men may be more likely to smoke tobacco and engage in other unhealthy habits such as excessive alcohol consumption, due in part to cultural expectations and norms that promote risky behavior.
Destroying unhealthy gender norms is therefore directly related to preventing lung cancer. Further, promoting a healthy lifestyle and encouragement to seek medical and psychological help can lead to a more inclusive and supportive society, which can have positive impacts on mental and physical health including reducing stress and improving overall well-being, as well as on people stuck in smoking habits. This will further help reduce the risk of cancer as chronic stress and poor mental health have also been linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases, including some types of cancer. So this World Cancer Day, White Ribbon takes an oath to challenge such toxic gender norms and save people from the toxic gender expectations and stereotypes that are causing irreversible damage to our society.
by admin | Mar 24, 2023 | Uncategorized
The tragic murder of Noor Mukaddam has once again highlighted the issue of violence against women in Pakistan. However, the response of Noor’s father to her death has sent a powerful message to Pakistani men about their role in addressing such issues. His stance throughout the case has shown that men who claim any sort of responsibility towards the women related to them, must ensure to stand up against the world for the honor and dignity of those women. Zahir Jaffer’s death sentence is a powerful reminder that perpetrators of violence can be and must be held accountable for their actions regardless of their social status. Fighting rigorously and bringing Zahir to his well-deserved end, Mr. Shaukat Mukaddam has conveyed that it is time to stop blaming women for the violence that they face. Rather it is time that the culprit alone is seen as a source of dishonor.
The way Noor Mukaddam’s family has responded to this tragedy has set a new standard for families of victims of violence. By refusing to accept the notion that a victim of abuse is a disgrace, Noor’s family, especially her father has demonstrated that the real shame lies with the abuser and their supporters. The father has owned his daughter in the truest sense. He has shown that a woman’s worth is not determined by the circumstances of her abuse, but by her inherent dignity and humanity. This message is especially important in a culture where victims of abuse are often blamed for the actions of their abusers. To conclude here, Noor Mukaddam’s murder was horrific beyond brutality, but her father’s response has shown that there is hope for change in Pakistan.
by admin | Jan 30, 2023 | Uncategorized
Importance of Gender Inclusion Workplace Programme in Pakistan
Gender inclusion in the workplace is crucial for the success of any business, and this is especially true in the Pakistani corporate sector. Creating a workplace that is inclusive can lead to increased productivity, creativity, and employee satisfaction. One of the most important reasons for promoting gender inclusion in the workplace is to tap into the full potential of the workforce. In Pakistan, women make up nearly half of the population, yet they are underrepresented in the corporate sector. By not including women in the workforce, companies are missing out on valuable talent and ideas. In addition to tapping into the full potential of the workforce, promoting gender inclusion can also lead to increased innovation and creativity. Diverse teams tend to come up with more innovative solutions to problems, as they bring different perspectives and experiences to the table. Gender inclusion can also lead to improved employee satisfaction. When employees feel included and valued, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work. This can result in increased productivity and lower turnover rates.
However, despite the benefits of gender inclusion, many Pakistani companies still struggle with creating an inclusive workplace. One of the main barriers to gender inclusion is cultural stereotypes and biases that perpetuate the idea that women are not suited for certain roles or industries. To promote gender inclusion in the workplace, companies should take a holistic approach that includes not only hiring and promoting women, but also creating a culture that supports and values them. This can include offering flexible work arrangements, providing training and development opportunities, and implementing policies that support diversity and inclusion.
In conclusion, promoting gender inclusion in the workplace is crucial for the success of Pakistani companies. By creating an inclusive culture and valuing the contributions of all employees, companies can tap into the full potential of the workforce, increase innovation and creativity, and improve employee satisfaction. It is important for Pakistani companies to understand the importance of gender inclusion and take the necessary steps to create a more inclusive workplace.
Blog by Bilal Ali
Communications Department, White Ribbon Pakistan
by admin | Jan 17, 2023 | Uncategorized
- Benefits of Gender Inclusive Workplace
Women inclusion is key for business growth because it brings diversity of perspectives and ideas to the table, which can lead to more innovative and effective solutions to problems. Studies have shown that companies with greater gender diversity tend to have higher levels of creativity and productivity. Additionally, diversity in the workplace can also help companies connect with and understand their diverse customer base better.
Furthermore, research has also shown that companies with more women on their boards and in leadership positions tend to have better financial performance, which can ultimately drive growth. Including women in all levels of the organization can also help companies tap into a larger pool of talent, which can be beneficial for recruitment and retention. Companies that are known for promoting diversity and inclusion are often more attractive to potential employees, which can help them attract top talent and retain their best employees.
Overall, women inclusion is not only a moral imperative but also a business imperative for success, growth and resilience in today’s fast-paced and dynamic global economy.
- Top of Form
- Equal opportunity can create a number of benefits for corporate business, including:
- Increased diversity of perspectives and ideas: Having a diverse workforce brings different perspectives and experiences to the table, which can lead to more innovative and effective solutions to problems.
- Improved decision-making: A diverse group of individuals with different perspectives and experiences can help to ensure that important decisions are made with the input of different perspectives, avoiding groupthink and blind spots.
- Better financial performance: Studies have shown that companies with greater diversity tend to have higher returns on equity, lower volatility, and better average growth.
- Improved recruitment and retention: Companies that promote equal opportunity and diversity are often more attractive to potential employees, which can help them attract top talent and retain their best employees.
- Better connection with customers: Having a diverse workforce can help companies connect with and understand their diverse customer base better.
- Legal compliance: Providing equal opportunity is a legal requirement in many countries and not doing so can lead to legal issues and penalties.
- Improved company culture and morale: Creating a culture of equal opportunity and inclusivity can lead to a better work environment and improved morale among employees.
- Better problem-solving and creativity: A diverse team is more likely to solve problems better and come up with creative solutions due to the different perspectives they bring to the table.
By Bilal Ali
Communications Department
White Ribbon Pakistan
by admin | Jan 10, 2023 | Uncategorized
White Ribbon aims at building a new idea of masculinity in society. Multiple types of research have been conducted by many renowned institutions, like the U.N, which have indicated that men themselves might not be entirely comfortable with the stereotypical roles associated with their gender. The hypermasculine roles dictated by society put men under a high, if not equal, pressure as women. Driven by this pressure, men acquire unhealthy behavior which ultimately impacts women due to their subordinate position in the social hierarchy. White Ribbon is, therefore, determined to work on the root cause and eradicate violence against women by engaging the key source of this violence, i.e men. The campaign introduces men with healthy and flexible social roles on different social and professional platforms and encourages them to become social justice allies for women by taking up simple measures and ending the predominant anti-women social practices. This will help men as much as women, to break through the constraints of hurtful social norms and live a more fulfilled life.
