Glass Ceiling: An Invisible Social Barrier

Reference

Hillary Clinton discussed the 'glass ceiling' concept in the context of Kamala Harris's nomination as presidential candidate.

What is Glass Ceiling

• It is a social metaphor commonly used to describe the invisible barriers that prevent women and minorities from reaching the top of their careers.
• It is an invisible but highly influential social structure that prevents women and other minorities from reaching top management and leadership roles.

Emergence of Glass Ceiling Concept

• The concept of glass ceiling emerged in the 1970s and 1980s when it was observed that although the number of women in the workplace was increasing, very few women were reaching higher positions.
• This problem not only affects their professional growth but also hampers the overall gender equality in society.

Reasons for the development of the concept of glass ceiling

• Gender-based bias: Women are often perceived as less decisive or less competent, which leads to them not being adequately considered for senior positions.
• Work-life balance: Women are expected to maintain a balance between their career and family. This prevents them from devoting the extra time and energy needed for senior positions.
• Lack of representation: Another significant challenge is the lack of representation and role models in senior positions. The lack of women in top positions leads to a cycle in which aspiring women leaders lack guidance and role models. This makes it difficult for them to envision and follow a leadership path.
• Limited networking opportunities: Women often have limited networking opportunities in the leadership context. Professional networks play a vital role in career advancement. Male-dominated networking hinders women's ability to leverage professional connections.

Efforts to break the glass ceiling

• Reservation and quota: Many countries have made provision for reservation for women in government and non-government organizations to help them reach higher positions.
  • For example, India has a provision of 33% reservation to increase women representation in the political field.
• Empowerment and awareness: Targeted education and training is being emphasized to empower women and enhance their capabilities.
  • For example, spreading awareness through schemes like 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao'.
• Institutional reform: Policies and procedures are being improved to promote gender equality and safety in workplaces.
  • For example, Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013

Conclusion

To solve a serious problem like glass ceiling, there is a need to bring about changes at the social and institutional level, provide equal opportunities to women and minorities and eliminate prejudices against them. Breaking the glass ceiling by women and minorities not only empowers them, but also leads the entire society towards improvement and equality.