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Gender and Class: Exploring the Intersections of Power and Inequality

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A special issue of Societies (ISSN 2075-4698).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2025) | Viewed by 13329

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Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Tamsin Bradley

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Guest Editor

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK
Interests: ending violence against women and girls; promoting social inclusion (including gender, disability and mental health); harmful cultural practices (including female genital mutilation (FGM), forced marriage and breast ironing)

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue will apply a transnational lens to unravelling how social norms that shape everyday life are formed through the intersection of multiple factors including: class, ethnicity, age, gender, and cultural and religious values and beliefs. Specifically, articles in this edition will explore how social and gendered norms, heavily shaped by these multitude of factors, translate into hierarchies of power that not only limit the life opportunities for women and girls but also cause them harm. The articles will all take a similar methodological approach but focus on starkly different political-economic contexts including contexts impacted by climate crises. In doing so, the edition will be able to argue that, whilst norms are shaped by different factors and to different degrees, they are fundamentally gendered to perpetrate the power of some and to marginalise others.

Examples of topics to be covered:

Drought and FGM/C in Kenya;
Gendered norms and the bodily autonomy of women and girls in Somaliland;
The intersections of poverty, caste, and power and the gendered dimensions of modern slavery in India;
The normalisation of sexual violence and HIV transmission in Zimbabwe;
The power of the state and the invisibility of migrant and refugee women in the UK.

Contributions should adhere to one of three categories of papers (article, conceptual paper, or review) of the journal and address the topic of the Special Issue.

Prof. Dr. Tamsin Bradley
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as conceptual papers are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a double-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Societies is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

social norms
power
gender
intersectionality
violence

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

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17 pages, 237 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Doctrinal and Newspaper Data Analysis of UK Policy for LGBTQ+ Asylum Seekers Following the Enactment of the Nationality and Boarders Act 2022

by Rachel Saunders

Societies 2025, 15(4), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040111 - 21 Apr 2025

Viewed by 268

Abstract

The UK government has detailed guidelines for assessing and guiding LGBTQI+ asylum seekers through the asylum process in the UK. This is an explorative paper assessing whether post the enactment of the Nationalities and Boarders Act 2022 the media narrative around queer refugees has had any influence on UK government policy. It does this by laying out the baseline UK LGBTQ+ asylum seeker legislative and UK civil service guidance and analysing UK newspapers in a media data analysis of mainstream UK media websites to see if there is any media influence on legislation or guidance post-enactment of the NBA 2022. These findings indicate there was no discernible influence on UK government policy towards LGBTQ+ asylum seekers by mainstream UK news media (Mainstream media for this research is defined as national newspapers with large website traffic, such as The Guardian, The Times, and The Daily Mail. These sources were chosen due to their digital footprint and searchability, which enabled textual analysis of the content) post-enactment of the NBA 2022 on 28 April 2022. In addition, the doctrinal analysis shows that the UK government is both opaque about LGBTQ+ asylum statistics and the outcome of Stage 1 asylum decisions, making it difficult to judge what sources influence these decisions and data. This makes it difficult for the UK media to cover these stories with clarity unless a claimant waives their right to anonymity, or a leak happens. Given the available data, it is also apparent that there has been a year-on-year decrease in LGBTQ asylum appeals, suggesting that while the media narrative may not be influencing policy, the New Plan itself may be having a chilling influence on LGBTQ asylum claims. More research over a longer period of time is required to explore this. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender and Class: Exploring the Intersections of Power and Inequality)

16 pages, 2743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Post-2021 Afghan Situation: Romanian Students’ Knowledge, Views and Cultural Receptiveness

by Simona Șimon, Gabriel-Mugurel Dragomir and Marcela Alina Fărcașiu

Societies 2025, 15(3), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15030058 - 25 Feb 2025

Viewed by 1340

Abstract

In a world in which the political crisis is escalating, causing the emergence of war and conflict, even in unexpected regions, the post-2021 Afghan situation of the population in general, and of the women in particular, is a reminder of the atrocities caused by colliding political powers. This article aims to raise Romanian students’ awareness of post-2021 Afghanistan, a geographically and culturally distant country, to identify their perceptions of the Afghans’ lives under the current regime as well as to single out the respondents’ cultural receptiveness. To achieve these research objectives, an online survey was carried out at the beginning of 2024 among the students of Politehnica University of Timișoara (Romania), recording 420 responses. The study revealed that, although the majority of the surveyed population is well acquainted with the topic under discussion, there is a significant sample that is still unaware of it despite its media coverage. Furthermore, the subjects’ cultural responsiveness is illustrative of the cultural traits of the Romanians, pointing to the slowness of the cultural change in spite of the incontestable economic growth of the country. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender and Class: Exploring the Intersections of Power and Inequality)

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14 pages, 212 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Somali/Somalilander Men in London Share Their Views on FGM—Towards a Male-Focused Continuum of Change

by Tamsin Bradley and Isha Abdulkadir

Societies 2025, 15(3), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15030056 - 25 Feb 2025

Viewed by 536

Abstract

This article is an attempt to go some way towards filling two critical gaps in understanding what works best to end FGM. Firstly, the views of men are still not commonly the focus of research, the assumption being, until relatively recently, that FGM is a practice conducted by women on girls. Secondly, research that does seek to capture a male perspective from so-called ‘cutting’ contexts has rarely focused on the views of men from the UK Somalia/Somaliland diaspora. This gap in knowledge is stark considering that Somalia and Somaliland have the highest prevalence of FGM globally. The views documented and analysed in this article come from men in the Somali/Somalilander diaspora in London. Multiple viewpoints are shared that reveal potentially critical shifts in mindsets towards FGM. Unsurprising, younger men in the research were more open to change than their older counterparts. This article articulates a cautionary note. Those men who are willing to act to end FGM are not necessarily motivated by gender equity. This article argues that a new carefully designed continuum of change is needed to specifically capture the different viewpoints of men. This continuum will then support more targeted activism focused on ending FGM through gender transformation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender and Class: Exploring the Intersections of Power and Inequality)

13 pages, 194 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM/C) in Garissa and Isiolo, Kenya: Impacts on Education and Livelihoods in the Context of Cultural Norms and Food Insecurity

by Ottis Mubaiwa and Donah Chilo

Societies 2025, 15(2), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15020043 - 19 Feb 2025

Viewed by 642

Abstract

This article explores the complex challenges of combating Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the counties of Garissa and Isiolo (Kenya) amidst environmental stressors, particularly drought and food insecurity. FGM persists as a deeply entrenched form of violence against women and girls (VAWG), profoundly rooted in social and traditional beliefs. This practice is often justified by cultural norms but leads to severe physical, psychological, and social harm, perpetuating cycles of gender inequality. Framing FGM as VAWG prioritises its recognition as a violation of human rights and underscores the need for comprehensive, culturally sensitive, and rights-based interventions. In addition, this study investigates how these challenges intersect and complicate efforts to address FGM, focusing on two counties in Kenya known for their adherence to this practice. The research methodology employs a longitudinal panel study design, drawing on in-depth narrative interviews with community narrators. A follow-up data collection was planned after six months to monitor changes over time. Furthermore, this research examines the impact of environmental stressors, such as drought and food insecurity, on educational access, resource availability, and community responses to interventions aimed at eradicating FGM. Findings reveal a complex interplay between cultural norms, economic hardships, and the perpetuation of FGM. Drought and food insecurity exacerbate vulnerabilities within communities, diverting attention and resources away from efforts to challenge ingrained practices like FGM. The article underscores the need for holistic approaches that integrate anti-FGM initiatives into broader resilience-building strategies. It emphasises community engagement, culturally sensitive education, and economic empowerment as pivotal elements in addressing FGM within the context of environmental stressors. Recommendations include mobile education units, community-based empowerment programs, and partnerships with local leaders to foster sustainable change. This case study contributes valuable insights into the challenges of combatting FGM in the face of environmental stressors, shedding light on the intricacies that hinder progress. It advocates for a comprehensive, context-specific approach that recognises and navigates the intersecting challenges posed by cultural norms and environmental crises in the fight against FGM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender and Class: Exploring the Intersections of Power and Inequality)

19 pages, 283 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Class and Gender Violence: Understanding a Case of Wealthy (Online) Influencers and Misogyny

by Claudia Doiciar and Remus Crețan

Societies 2025, 15(2), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15020036 - 14 Feb 2025

Viewed by 2388

Abstract

Our research examines a unique case of the complex interplay between two wealthy brothers and their actions of gender-based violence. In presenting the case of the Tate brothers, British influencers who settled in Romania, we explore how they gained notoriety through their wealth, their online presence, and controversial ideas that promote misogyny. In a survey involving 56 young and young–mature participants, we highlighted perceptions of the Tate brothers alongside attitudes toward wealth, gender roles and norms, and misogyny. Our findings indicate a predominantly negative sentiment towards the Tate brothers, particularly regarding their wealthy class position and how their class power is unfolded through misogyny in their online presence. This study underscores the urgent need for national and international authorities and NGOs to improve the surveillance of misogynistic men’s discourses and practices to combat violence against women. Additionally, it highlights the importance of increasing awareness about the detrimental consequences of gender inequality created through the triadic nexus of class privilege, masculinity, and misogyny. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender and Class: Exploring the Intersections of Power and Inequality)

18 pages, 1401 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Adaptive Strategies in the Link Between Sexual Harassment and Burnout in Higher Education: A Three-Path Mediation Model

by Abu Elnasr E. Sobaih, Hassane Gharbi, Riadh Brini and Tamer M. Abdelghani

Societies 2025, 15(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15020027 - 31 Jan 2025

Viewed by 803

Abstract

Like many other sectors, women in higher education have had negative experiences with sexual harassment. This study examines the coping mechanisms used by female lecturer/researchers and their impact on burnout. Based on Occupational Stress Theory, this research specifically analyzes the mediating role of three coping strategies, i.e., problem-focused coping, emotion-focused coping, and avoidant coping. A quantitative survey was conducted among 800 Tunisian women teacher-researchers, with 613 complete responses that are valid for analysis. The results revealed that under the influence of sexual harassment, women in Tunisian higher education institutions suffer increased burnout. Structural equation analysis shows that emotion-focused coping has a partial mediation effect, while avoidant coping fully mediates the link between harassment and burnout. This research adds to the literature on sexual harassment and suggests implications for the prevention and support of victims in higher education institutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender and Class: Exploring the Intersections of Power and Inequality)

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19 pages, 696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Empowerment and Sustainability: Investigating Barriers to Women’s Transition from Higher Education to Empowerment in Brazil

by Muhammad Qasim Rana, Angela Lee, José Fernando Rodrigues Bezerra and Guilherme Hissa Villas Boas

Societies 2024, 14(11), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110234 - 12 Nov 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2211

Abstract

Gender equality continues to be a global issue, with significant disparities in attention and action between developed and developing nations. Women, in particular, face unique challenges when transitioning from higher education (HE) to empowerment compared to their male counterparts. In many developing countries, barriers to accessing formal education are prevalent, while, in others, despite access to education, women struggle to leverage their learning for societal advancement. This paper adopts the development theory approach by exploring the role of gender equality in fostering sustainable development, emphasizing how women’s empowerment is integral to overall societal progress. This study focuses on Brazil, where, despite high levels of female educational attainment, women still encounter substantial obstacles in transforming their education into meaningful societal empowerment. These challenges include restricted freedom and mobility, deeply ingrained gender norms, violence and harassment, cultural and societal expectations, economic limitations, and family obligations. Survey data were collated from 192 students, alumni, and staff at three academic higher education (HE) institutions in Brazil, utilizing a range of descriptive and inferential statistical analyses to uncover the most significant barriers. This study concludes with policy recommendations aimed at various stakeholders, including government bodies, employers, and other organizations, to support a smoother transition for women from higher education to empowerment. These recommendations include improving workplace policies, enhancing legal protections, and promoting gender equality in leadership roles, all of which are essential to narrowing the gender gap in Brazil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender and Class: Exploring the Intersections of Power and Inequality)

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22 pages, 3029 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Class and Ethno-Gender Differences in Education and Labour Market Position—An Intersectional Analysis of Ethnic Integration in the UK

by Yaojun Li

Societies 2024, 14(11), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110222 - 28 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1044

Abstract

This paper analyses the socio-economic disadvantages of women from different ethnic minority heritages in the UK. Using data from the Labour Force Survey (2014–2023), which contains detailed information on parental class and respondents’ socio-economic conditions, we examine four domains of life chances which are crucial for ethnic integration: educational attainment at the degree level, risks of unemployment, access to professional-managerial (salariat) position and earning power. We proceeded with the gross differences and then examined the differences by ethno-gender status and parental class combinations, controlling for many confounding factors. We also examined the net ethno-gender differences over the life course and the trends of social fluidity over the period covered and across the ethno-gender groups. We found that women from all ethnic origins were doing well in education but faced multiple disadvantages in the labour market, especially in access to the salariat and in earning power. Women of Pakistani/Bangladeshi heritages faced pronounced unemployment risks, especially at the earlier life stages. There is a significant increase in fluidity over the period covered, but this is marked by considerable ethnic and class differences, with Black Caribbean, Black African, Pakistani and Bangladeshi women from more advantaged class origins being unable to secure advantaged class positions and those from working-class families unable to make long-range upward mobility as effectively as White men. Overall, Bangladeshi, Pakistani, Black African and Black Caribbean women are found to be considerably disadvantaged, but there are also signs of social progress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender and Class: Exploring the Intersections of Power and Inequality)

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17 pages, 2629 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tea Shops in Myanmar: Micro-Institutional Functions for Rural Migrants and Women

by Zaw Lin and Joseph J. Molnar

Societies 2024, 14(8), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14080154 - 14 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1712

Abstract

Lahpet-Ye-Hsain, commonly referred to as “tea shops” or teahouses, are versatile establishments that serve as both dining places and social gathering spots. These micro-institutions are fundamental to Myanmar society at the local level, playing a significant role in daily social interactions, economic activities, and political discourse. Operated as private businesses and informal meeting spots, tea shops are primarily staffed by women who serve tea and food to a predominantly male clientele at various times of the day. The size of tea shops can vary, from small snack shops to larger establishments offering a wide range of menu options. In a typical small village tea shop, customers sit on footstools around small square tables, creating a space for sharing tea and food, and exchanging ideas, opinions, problems, hopes, and aspirations. Tea shops attract a diverse range of individuals, as they are known for their inclusive nature that welcomes people from all backgrounds and walks of life, although women are often on the periphery. Historically dominated by men, we suggest that empowering women’s involvement in tea shops could positively impact their agency in other aspects of life, especially during political change. These micro-institutions serve as the initial connection point for residents in the village or neighborhood, traditionally catering to men but now increasingly broadened to women, newcomers, and young individuals exploring new opportunities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender and Class: Exploring the Intersections of Power and Inequality)

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Review

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18 pages, 2368 KiB

Open AccessReview

Initiatives of Female Empowerment in Computing Implemented at the High School Level: A Systematic Mapping

by Ramayane Bonacin Braga, Mirelle Amaral de São Bernardo, Sara Luiz de Farias, Thalia Santos de Santana and Marcos de Moraes Sousa

Societies 2024, 14(9), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14090167 - 30 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1210

Abstract

Gender disparities in technology are evident, and affirmative actions are necessary to increase female representation. This article is part of an umbrella project that systematically maps related studies and aims to understand the current literature on initiatives to attract girls to high school through female empowerment projects in computing. Through a systematic literature mapping (SLM), we identified studies published between 2017 and 2022 that were available in databases and search engines, namely ACM Digital Library, IEEE Xplore Library, Scopus, and SBC Open Lib. Only primary studies returned in an automated search process were considered, without combining them with other search strategies. A priori, 264 articles were returned with the application of a search string and after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 61 articles were selected. Of this number, 41 projects were named in the articles that describe activities involving high school. To answer the established research questions, it was found that the studies discussed projects implemented in secondary education in the Americas, Europe and Africa, indicating the importance of expanding these initiatives to other territories, increasing female participation in information technology and promoting gender equality, which is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 5) of the United Nations 2030 Agenda. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender and Class: Exploring the Intersections of Power and Inequality)

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