Feminism in the Third World

By all accounts, feminism should be well supported in the developing world. With forced or arranged marriages, polygamy, slavery and other aspects of unequal, inhuman treatment accorded women in that world, we should expect a great support for the work of the feminist movement. No greater need exists for the development of human rights.

But all is not as it might seem. Concerns about the individualism inherent in the Western model, with its destructive force on communities and families, are real. Western values are already seen as the cause of the breakdown of traditional family life. Large-scale urbanization and the demands of industries for migrant workers have contributed to vast social problems in Africa, including the epidemic of AIDS. So why would another Western concept be able to help?

The plight of women is seen as being best resolved by an appeal to a higher standard. Hence, Mercy Amba Oduyoye, an ardent speaker and activist for African women, speaks in theological terms. She says, “We banish peace when we don’t live out compassion-filled justice.” That justice has a defined basis. Oduyoye continues, “May we live God’s justice so that those who see us proclaim the only God.” Wisely, she hopes “that a theology of relationships might contribute to bring us closer to human life as God desires it.”