A recent report by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) showed that almost 48 percent of unemployed Iranian women have a higher education certificate. This is in comparison to the 14 percent of unemployed men.
While unemployment is still high in Iran, the rates have gone down in recent years. People most likely to be found without a job are those from 20 to 24 year olds. So the higher number of unemployment for women is those who recently graduated with a degree. Currently women only hold up to ten percent of the national economic activities. The likelihood of finding a managerial job is also low. Thus no matter where they get their higher education certificate, it will overall be harder for women to find employment today.
A national census reported: “Women with higher education expect better jobs while the market is made for men and women cannot replace men.”
Most people blame the government for the discrimination and suppression of women’s rights. With strict laws that control their dress code and ability to travel, women are also finding themselves with restricted access to education. While women make up 60 percent of the total university entrance applicants, there are still limits to what they can learn. In recent years, state education system have installed several female-only universities and established gender segregation in several fields of study. By the time of their graduation, women are less likely to hold a degree in a subject that could provide them with a high-paying employment.
The Iranian laws support male supremacy in families, education, and employment. Women will continue to be victims of discrimination in their country unless the laws are overturned. Even with employment rates going up, the offer will most likely be given to men first.
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