Seven ways feminism has improved the world for young women compared to our mothers’ generation

International Women’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate how far we’ve come in transforming the lives of women and girls around the world.

Historically, women have faced subjugation and limited freedom, with societal expectations confining us to marriage and childrearing. In the UK, the suffragette movement in the early 20th century was a pivotal moment in the fight for women’s rights. The efforts of activists like Emmaline Pankhurst and the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU), along with parallel movements worldwide, laid the groundwork for future advancements.

Fast forward to the 21st century, and increased access to education and healthcare has shattered the notion of women as passive, opening up a world of new opportunities. Here are eight examples of social changes that have made the world a more equitable place for women in their 20s and 30s than things were for our mothers.

1. We are crushing career barriers

In the 1960s, career options for women were generally limited to roles like domestic servants, teachers, nurses, or dressmakers.

Thanks to decades of relentless advocacy and progress, today, women are breaking barriers across all industries. Although challenges still exist, we can now find roles in traditionally male-dominated fields such as technology, engineering, and finance.

Policies supporting work-life balance and combating discrimination are more prevalent. And the rise of remote work and flexible schedules allows many women to more effectively balance their careers with their personal lives.

2. We are experiencing an education revolution

Women’s education was limited in the 1960s by societal norms that prioritised marriage over academic achievement. Young women often left school early, and few could pursue higher education.

Today, the education landscape has transformed dramatically, offering more opportunities for women to pursue higher education and specialized training. Scholarships and grants, as well as online education platforms, have made education more accessible and affordable.

Women are now earning degrees at higher rates than ever before. In the UK, 57% of graduates are women, and in the US, that jumps to 58%.

In many countries, women now outpace men when it comes to university enrolment. 

3. We are taking charge of our relationships

For many women in our mothers’ and grandmothers’ generation, marriage was seen as the ultimate goal, with family life centred on traditional roles.

Over the past six decades, divorce has lost much of its stigma, allowing women to make choices that better prioritise our wellbeing. In many countries now, forced marriage has been outlawed and crimes like domestic violence and stalking – overwhelmingly perpetrated against women – are finally being taken seriously by both the law and the media.

In the UK, diverse family structures, including single parenthood, cohabitation, and LGBTQ+ partnerships are now recognised by the law. This means we have the freedom to make choices in our relationships based on our own needs and desires.

4. We have gained control over our reproductive choices

Reproductive rights were severely limited in the 1960s. Most women had little access to birth control and limited knowledge about family planning.

Today we have greater control over our reproductive choices, supported by legal rights and medical advances. Increased access to contraception and comprehensive reproductive health services are empowering us to make informed decisions.

While challenges remain, particularly in the US, the strides made highlight the importance of continued advocacy for reproductive justice.

5. We are socially and culturally more empowered

The social and cultural landscape has undergone a seismic shift, empowering women like never before.

Movements such as #MeToo  (a social campaign against sexual abuse and harassment, empowering survivors to share their experiences), and Time’s Up (a movement founded in 2018 by celebrities that aimed to support victims of workplace sexual harassment and advocate for gender equality), have shattered the silence on gender inequality and harassment.

Oprah Winfrey’s Golden Globes speech marked an important moment in the Time’s Up movement.

6. We have gained legal rights and political influence

In the course of a generation, women have gained substantial legal rights, with laws supporting gender equality and protection against discrimination coming into force.

More women are now lawyers, judges, and lawmakers, leading to more equitable laws and policies addressing workplace discrimination, domestic violence, and reproductive rights. As of 2024, women make up over 50% of law firm associates and more than 40% of the nation’s lawyers. In the 1980s, women comprised only about 8% of the legal profession.

Our political influence has also grown. Today, women occupy more significant positions in government globally than ever before, from local councils to prime ministers and presidents. Our voices are now crucial in shaping policies and representing diverse perspectives.