Women and Social Structure Change; Analyzing the Narrative of Active Women Activists in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq

Daneshmehr, Hossein; Khodakaram Alzandi, Ameer; Ahmad Mahmood, Kurda

doi:10.22059/jwdp.2024.375957.1008445

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

¹ Associate Professor, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran.

² Full Professor, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Sulaimani, Sulaimaniyah, Iraq.

³ MA Sociology, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran.

https://doi.org/10.22059/jwdp.2024.375957.1008445

Abstract

The current research is based on the narrative of female activists regarding the role and status of women in the transformation of the social structure of the Kurdistan region. The function and position of women in the Kurdistan Region's structural changes have been elucidated through the application of Sharabi and socialist feminist theories. Narrative analysis is implemented in this investigation, which adheres to the qualitative methodology. To achieve this objective, the semi-structured interview strategy and targeted and homogeneous sampling were implemented to interview eighteen individuals who are involved in the associations. The data were interpreted and analyzed in the form of 12 primary themes and 6 secondary themes. The results showed that the social structure underwent alteration subsequent to the establishment of the Kurdistan Region in 1991 AD, which consequently altered the role and status of women accordingly. From that time until now, political parties have influenced the demands and associations of women, and they have examined women’s issues within the context of party goals. Nevertheless, women have been able to secure their position within this structure by actively participating and occupying managerial and political positions. The influence of education, media, and associations has been significant. Women's associations, as one of the most significant structural changers and active women themselves as agents of change, have passed equitable laws, eradicated old social and cultural patterns, and raised awareness, support, and representation of women's problems and challenges.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Sociology

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Women and Social Structure Change; Analyzing the Narrative of Active Women Activists in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq

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Volume 22, Issue 4December 2024Pages 1043-1068

Volume 22, Issue 4
December 2024
Pages 1043-1068