Abstract
This article explores the relationship between skewed sex ratios, women’s political participation and the risk of violent conflict in parts of Asia. It reviews demographic drivers of “women deficit,” including son preference, differential healthcare and migration, and links these imbalances to social outcomes such as trafficking, forced marriage and localised violence. The study surveys theories connecting gender inequality to conflict propensity—opportunity structures, grievance dynamics and norms of exclusion—and presents comparative perspectives from South and East Asia. It then discusses how inclusive democratic institutions, quotas, local representation and rights protections can mitigate risks and broaden the constituency for peace. The paper argues that correcting gender imbalances requires coordinated policy: investment in girls’ health and education, enforcement against gender-biased practices and meaningful participation in decision-making.
Full Text
The body first sets a demographic baseline with cohort-wise sex ratios and regional variation. Section One analyses mechanisms linking gender imbalance to insecurity—competition among surplus males, erosion of social capital and normalisation of coercion. Section Two evaluates democratic correctives: reserved seats, party nomination rules, campaign finance supports and protection from political violence. Section Three examines sectoral policies—maternal health, scholarships, childcare and safe mobility—that expand women’s agency and reduce household vulnerability. Section Four discusses media and curriculum reforms to shift norms around value of daughters. Section Five outlines monitoring frameworks: civil registration, local safety audits and rapid-response services for GBV. The conclusion argues that democracies that mainstream gender equality—substantively, not symbolically—are better equipped to prevent conflict and sustain inclusive development.