Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Blog 7: Women Finding Their Way in German Politics


              In Germany, where much is taken earnestly and politicians can be stubborn, Ms. Dreyer who is 52 has made headlines for her wide smile. Her party which is called social democrats, touted her sunny approach in a campaign that sold her as someone as “beloved as free beer and days off in the summer.” Ms. Dreyer is a prime example of how women in Germany are beginning to make their marks in politics. During the 11 years that she spent as labor minister of her state, she became known for tackling problems at the source. Her character and reputation defy what she has said is a condition that steeled her for the rough-and-tumble of politics. Her political agenda is heavily focused on issues of social justice. Within weeks of taking office on January 16th, she has already pushed an initiative to enact a nationwide minimum wage. This is an issue that has been resisted for years by the German political and business establishments. Another women making progress in politics, who also is a social democrat, is Hannelore Kraft. She has retained her governorship and has won a clear majority in the state legislature for years. The article goes on to explain a few other powerful women in Germany who are making a stand in politics.
          From a sociological perspective this article once again points out the inequality women face globally. No matter what country you travel too, women are always going to be treated less fairly than men. However, this article gives light to the fact that women are progressing so much in politics in Germany. One flaw with this is that it’s the year 2013, this accomplishment should have happened years ago.  


http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/08/world/europe/women-finding-their-way-in-german-politics.html?ref=women&_r=1&

11:32 AM, 3/20/13
Alice Gunning

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