The Unfinished Business of Our Time: Restrictions of Women’s Autonomy in Islamic Countries 

Although women represent half of the world’s population, gender inequality runs rampant. Gender inequality dismisses human development, while women’s empowerment has spurred productivity and economic growth. In October 2024, governments released statements centered around government interference in women’s autonomy in Afghanistan, Turkey, and Pakistan. News about the government and women’s autonomy in these countries has highlighted cases of gender inequality. Social media has become a major tool in spreading news of the government's mistreatment of women to an international audience. At the same time, each country has a separate response to address its violation of human rights. As the UN Secretary-General has called gender inequality the “unfinished business of our time,” governments must address the violence that has hindered women’s success to maintain legitimacy.