Analysis of Millennium Development Goals Regarding Women's Health in a Cultural Feminist Perspective

The millennium goals have been adopted by the international community (United Nations) as a framework for the development activities of over 190 countries in 10 regions. They have been articulated into over 20 targets and over 60 indicators. Maternal and child health issues in millennium development goals (MDGs) have always been highlighted but no upfront interest has been shown regarding women's sexual and reproductive health. Cultural feminism ideas commend the positive aspects of the female character or feminine personality. It is an ideology of a ‘female nature’ or ‘female essence’ that is generally undervalued. Instead of emphasizing the similarities between men and women, they often stress the differences. They ultimately affirm the female qualities and nature which may be a source of personal strength and pride and a fount of public regeneration. The MDG goals should also focus on the female qualities and nature. Women's health only concerns about motherhood in the MDGs. However other aspects like mental and emotional issues should also be given importance. These qualities define women in a very positive way. To ensure the MDG targets and for protecting women's health they should be considered.