Wang, AnnieMrs. PhilyawHH2: Period 53/25/14Gender Inequality in Syria"No society treats its women as well as its men." So says the United Nations Development Programme, written in its 1997 Human Development Report. Gender inequality is a widespread problem in society around the world. However, in less privileged third world countries like Syria, this problem is exacerbated by the pitiful conditions in which the Syrian people live. According to a gender gap study conducted in 2013, Syria's gender gap index ranks 133rd out of 136 countries. By comparison, the American index ranked 23rd out of 136 countries. The stark contrast between the two presents an overwhelming reality that we must face and, ultimately, change. Syrian women are discriminated against, beaten, denied the same rights as men and expected to meet different standards than men. This is not only unfair; It's wrong and needs to be changed immediately. But what is gender inequality? According to gender communications scholar Julia Wood, it is the unequal treatment or perception of individuals based on their gender that arises from differences in socially constructed gender roles, as well as biologically through chromosomes, brain structure, and hormonal differences. However, such discrimination against women does not stem from a simple mentality that can simply be ignored or overlooked; the gender gap cripples women in all aspects of their lives. For Syrian women, the denial of rights, the right to basic human freedoms and the lack of equality intertwine to create a system under which they are systematically oppressed. For one thing, it hinders their ability to secure stable jobs. In a study conducted from the United States..... middle of paper ......this for people like us, when we too face the effects of gender inequality in our daily lives? While it is true that ALL women in the world face gender inequality, Syria's problem desperately needs to be changed as soon as possible. The injustices against women are staggering and make those in other countries seem tame. As human beings, we must care for the well-being of other human beings when they are suffering, as Syrian women are today. And think about it. These women are all mothers, sisters, daughters and partners. The current gender inequality crisis in Syria is a serious problem that desperately needs change. The discrimination and cruelties committed against Syrian women are incredible. While a problem as deeply rooted and widespread as gender inequality can be a daunting task to undertake, together we have the power to make a difference.