Gender Gap in Mobile phone ownership

This recent report by Cherie Blair Foundation  points out that there are almost 300 million fewer female than males own a mobile phone in low and middle income countries. The report also cites some interesting case studies about how mobile phones are improving social, educational and economic opportunities for women in these countries. 

 

In addition, nine out of ten women reported feeling safer due to their mobile phones. I also found this from my research on mobile phones and youth. In the survey that I conducted with young people in Mumbai and Kanpur, almost 90% females and 81% males reported that they acquired cell phones for safety. While almost all young people (100%) in Mumbai reported that they acquired cell phones for safety purposes, in comparison only 71% in Kanpur said so. The gender gap in Kanpur was quite prominent, where almost 80% females as compared to 62% of the males reported that they acquired cell phones for safety. In addition, during my qualitative interviews, the females in both cities reported that they find it easier to go for classes/ work in the evenings because of mobile phones. Because when they stay out late they can call up their parents and inform them of their whereabouts.  

 

The findings from Women and Mobile report from the Cherie Blair Foundation and my research show that cell phones are acquired, perceived and used as devices for safety. The fact that women can move about freely and independently and avail of educational opportunities can certainly lead to women's empowerment.