Feminist Theory

Sociology | Mercantile Law | International Law | International Relations

Feminism is a non-traditional and modern theory of International Relations. The theory highlighted the aspects of international relations from the point of view of women of the world. The theory propounds how this gender has been sidelined in deciding international relations despite being its direct victim every time. Feminism is the broadest example of an effort for women empowerment.

Origin of Feminism as Theory of International Relations
Origin of Feminism is actually the consequence of several world conferences convened to empower women across the globe. Some of the prominent conferences that played role in this regard are;

  • Mexico Women’s Conference 1975
  • Copenhagen Women’s Conference 1980
  • Nairobi Women’s Conference 1985
  • Convention on Elimination of All Kinds of Discriminations against Women 1979

These conferences highlighted the rights of women along with the need to empower them and give them a share in deciding international affairs.

International Endorsement of Women’s Rights
Following the conferences mentioned above, international community endorsed the rightful demands of women. The United Nations declared the years from 1976 to 1985 as ‘Decade for Women’. Similarly, the year 1975 was marked as the ‘International Women’s Year’.

Core Points of Feminism as a Theory
Feminism laid down following reservations upon the contemporary world order;

  • World order is in fact male dominated.
  • National interest is always multi-dimensional but is defined by masculinity.
  • Women have always remained hidden in international relations.
  • Women are direct victims of male dominated decision making in international relations.
  • War is decided by men but women suffer.

Efficacy of Feminism
Feminism is right in its reservations but it is utopian scheme. It is not practicable to secure the share for women in international relations in a way as demanded. Feminism just like World System Theory explains one dimensional aspect of international relations. Though there is a vast change observable today in the status of women in world. They have been empowered greatly. But there are cultural, social and historical barriers to enhance their role in international relations that are difficult to overcome.

Another point which proves that women are now more active in international relations more than they were in the past is that they can be seen as heads of the states, chief diplomats, ambassadors, head of delegations at UN.

Conclusion
Feminist theory is more a reservation than an explanation how international relations are regulated. It rarely gives any clear cut mechanism to regulate international relations. It has however helped in empowering women.