ANSWER

The phenomenon of around 100 million girls and women being referred to as “missing” in developing countries is primarily attributed to gender-based discrimination and various socio-cultural factors that lead to higher mortality rates and lower birth rates for females compared to males. This issue has been widely discussed in the context of gender disparities, particularly in regions like South Asia and parts of Africa. Here are some key reasons for this phenomenon:

1. Sex-Selective Abortions: In some cultures, there is a strong preference for male offspring due to factors like inheritance, social status, and expectations of providing for the family. This preference can lead to sex-selective abortions when families have access to technologies that determine the gender of the fetus.
2. Female Infanticide: In certain societies, the birth of a female child is not celebrated as much as the birth of a male child. In extreme cases, female infanticide may occur due to the preference for male children.
3. Unequal Access to Healthcare and Nutrition: Gender bias can lead to unequal access to healthcare and nutrition. Boys might receive better healthcare and nutrition, leading to higher survival rates.
4. Higher Mortality Rates: Discrimination can manifest in higher mortality rates for girls and women. This could be due to neglect, limited access to medical care, or even early marriage and childbirth.
5. Limited Educational Opportunities: In some societies, boys are given priority when it comes to education. Limited access to education reduces girls’ awareness about health and family planning, perpetuating the cycle of gender inequality.
6. Child Marriage and Early Childbirth: Child marriage is prevalent in some regions, where girls are married off at a very young age. Early childbirth in adolescent girls can lead to health complications and increased mortality risks.
7. Violence Against Women: Gender-based violence, including domestic violence and trafficking, can contribute to premature deaths among women.
8. Inadequate Healthcare for Women: Maternal healthcare might be inadequate in some areas, leading to higher mortality rates during pregnancy and childbirth.
9. Cultural Practices and Norms: Traditional practices and norms that value boys over girls contribute to this issue. These practices are deeply rooted in some societies and can be difficult to change.
10. Lack of Legal Protection: Inadequate legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to protect the rights of women can perpetuate these gender disparities.

Efforts to address this issue require a comprehensive approach that involves social, cultural, economic, and political changes. Education and awareness campaigns, women’s empowerment initiatives, improved access to healthcare, legal reforms, and changing societal attitudes towards gender are all important components of addressing the problem of “missing” girls and women in developing countries.

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