What to read after Human rights and widows?

In many countries, the status of women without men is very low; most often they are extremely marginalized from all aspects of society. Widowhood is a problem throughout the world where violence and severe discrimination are increasing due to conflict, unawareness and patriarchal societies in which we live. Widows are viewed as the curse to their families, often blamed of their husband's death where their struggle is invisible and their needs become a distant dream. All of these factors restrict a woman's ability to lead a dignified and empowered life.

In India, there are an estimated 40 million widows, many of whom are child widows who have succumbed to a life of discrimination. The self-immolation of widows occurs where women are facing severe cruelty from their community and husband's family where they feel that there is no way out other than ending their life. Globally, sexual exploitation occurs between widows and their in-law's families, leading to psychological trauma, violence, economic insecurity and displacement of their children. Protection of this invisible group of women worldwide must be recognized, especially in developing countries as numerous human rights abuses are occurring against widows every day.

The present book is on the socio-economic and psychological condition of widows in India especially Vrindavan. The study of Vrindavan's widows is done on the basis of a field survey. In this book, we tried to attempt not only their condition before widowhood and after widowhood but also their economic condition and the way of surviving after coming to Vrindavan. The book also shows how these widows are in vulnerable conditions and what they expect from the government. And last, suggestions were given by these widows as well as by authors for their welfare.

Contents

Introduction

Objectives and Methodology

Socio-Economic and Psychological Condition of Widows in Vrindavan City

Economic Condition of the widows in Vrindavan City

Vulnerability of Widows in Vrindavan City

Conclusion and Suggestions