GENDER EQUALITY AND WOMEN'S CONTRIBUTION TO THE STABILITY OF SOCIETY: NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVES

Gender equality has emerged as both a normative goal and a strategic requirement for sustainable peace, security, and development. Women’s contributions—whether through governance, peacebuilding, climate adaptation, education, or economic participation—are central to strengthening democratic institutions, reducing poverty, and fostering inclusive growth. This paper provides a comprehensive review of national and international perspectives on the nexus between gender equality and societal stability. Drawing on feminist theory, human security studies, and social contract theory, it situates women’s empowerment within wider debates on governance and development. Through case studies in South Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), the article highlights successes and persistent barriers in women’s participation. It further examines the role of global frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and UN-led peacebuilding initiatives. Findings demonstrate that societies with higher levels of gender parity are more resilient to economic crises, political instability, and violent conflict. The paper concludes by outlining policy recommendations for embedding women’s agency in governance, legal systems, and global cooperation. These measures are essential for both national resilience and the consolidation of international peace and stability.