Patriarchal Structures and Gender Attitudes: Barriers to Women's Opportunities, Global Trends, and the Role of Education

Globalization has significantly impacted gender relations, creating tension between global efforts to promote women’s rights and traditional cultural norms. While international frameworks advocate for gender equality as a fundamental human right, some societies justify maintaining gender hierarchies through cultural and religious arguments. Over recent decades, Kazakhstan has experienced cultural changes, and gender equality has become a more prominent issue. Deeply entrenched patriarchal norms remain a major barrier to gender parity. These cultural values, transmitted through family and education, perpetuate the belief that women should be subordinate to men, and this patriarchy, supported by kinship and religious values, continues to marginalize women in decision-making processes.

This study explores how patriarchal structures and gender attitudes contribute to gender inequality and limit women’s opportunities in Kazakhstan. Using qualitative methodology, 25 interviews were conducted with young Kazakh men and women, aged 20 to 35, examining their perspectives on gender roles. The findings reveal that family upbringing reinforces gender stereotypes, with men often assigned primary status. While society places more expectations on women, men are often justified or supported. Traditional norms that restrict women’s freedom are more prevalent among older generations, and education is seen as less influential than social media in shaping understanding of gender equality.

Some informants noted that religion can support gender equality and family values but can also be misinterpreted by followers. Despite these challenges, there is an awareness of how gender inequality should not manifest in family, societal, educational, and career contexts. Globalization, education, career opportunity and internet access have contributed to delayed marriage, lower birth rates, increased female financial independence, and the spread of progressive views, but these advancements often clash with existing patriarchal structures. To address these conflicts, a comprehensive approach is necessary, including reforms in educational curricula and policies that promote gender sensitivity in education and society.