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Writer's pictureFakhruddin Babar

IELTS Speaking Part-3 Gender Issues / Sex Discrimination

Updated: Aug 1


Is it possible for women to join the army in your country?

Absolutely! In my country, women can definitely join the army. In fact, over the past few years, there has been a positive shift in societal attitudes, and it's now widely accepted that both men and women can serve in the armed forces. It's a great stride towards gender equality, and it reflects the changing dynamics in our society.

Is it compulsory for men to join the army in your country?

No, it's not compulsory for men to join the army in my country. While there is a military service option, it's not mandatory, and individuals have the freedom to choose whether they want to pursue a career in the military or not. This approach allows people to follow their interests and passions, contributing to a diverse range of professions across different sectors.

In your country, are the responsibilities of a mother the same as the responsibilities of a father to their families?

Well, the responsibilities of a mother and a father in my country are evolving, and there's a growing acknowledgment that parenting duties should be shared. Traditionally, mothers were often associated with caregiving, but nowadays, fathers are actively participating in child-rearing and household responsibilities. It's becoming more of a team effort, fostering stronger family bonds.

What are the responsibilities of a father/mother in a family?

The responsibilities of a father and mother in a family extend beyond just providing financial support. While traditionally fathers were seen as breadwinners, today both parents are expected to be actively involved in nurturing and raising their children. It involves not only earning a living but also emotional support, guidance, and creating a harmonious home environment.

What behaviors are deemed as appropriate for men but inappropriate for women?

In terms of behaviors, societal norms have changed, and there's a broader acceptance of diverse expressions of masculinity and femininity. Previously, certain behaviors were stereotypically associated with gender, but now, it's more about individual choices and personal preferences rather than strict gender expectations.

What habits are deemed as appropriate for men but inappropriate for women?

I believe that habits are more about personal choices rather than strict gender norms nowadays. While there might be lingering stereotypes, society is becoming more accepting of individual preferences. Both men and women can pursue the habits they enjoy without being confined by outdated expectations.

What jobs are deemed as appropriate for men but inappropriate for women?

Fortunately, the perception of suitable jobs for men and women is changing. In the past, certain professions were stereotypically associated with gender, but now there's a greater understanding that individuals should pursue careers based on their skills and interests rather than conforming to gender norms. So, both men and women have the freedom to choose diverse career paths.

Are men and women equal in ability and intelligence?

Absolutely! Men and women are equal in ability and intelligence. It's essential to recognize that capabilities are not determined by gender but by individual potential and dedication. The idea of equality is gaining momentum, and people are increasingly valuing skills and abilities over outdated gender stereotypes.

Are more doctors female or male in your country?

Interestingly, there has been a notable increase in the number of female doctors in my country. Women are making significant strides in the medical field, and it's becoming more balanced. This shift reflects the changing dynamics in educational and professional opportunities, providing women with the chance to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Are more professional musicians female or male in your country?

In the realm of professional musicians, the gender balance has been shifting, and it's becoming more equitable. While there might have been a time when the industry was predominantly male, now we see a diverse mix of talented female and male musicians, contributing their unique styles to the music scene.

Are more teachers female or male in your country?

Teaching is a profession where we often see a higher representation of females in my country. It's a positive trend as it brings diverse perspectives into education. However, there's also a growing awareness that both male and female teachers contribute significantly to the development of students, and efforts are being made to encourage more gender diversity in the teaching profession.

What things can either men or women do that the other cannot do and why?

While there are biological differences, in terms of abilities and capabilities, there's not much that one gender can do that the other cannot. Modern society is moving towards recognizing individual strengths and talents rather than imposing limitations based on gender. Both men and women can excel in a wide range of fields and activities.

Is it OK for men to cry?

Absolutely! It's perfectly okay for men to cry. Expressing emotions is a natural and healthy part of being human, irrespective of gender. Society is becoming more understanding, acknowledging that everyone, including men, needs a way to release emotions. It's a positive shift toward breaking down stereotypes and promoting emotional well-being.

Is it common for women and men to take part in sporting activities?

Yes, it's quite common for both women and men to actively participate in sporting activities in my country. Sports have become a universal platform where gender distinctions are fading away. Whether it's on the field, in the gym, or in recreational settings, people of all genders are embracing a more inclusive approach to sports and physical activities.

Are there more male or female managers and executives? Why do you think this is?

Currently, there is still a higher representation of male managers and executives in my country. This can be attributed to historical gender biases and stereotypes that have influenced leadership roles. However, there is a growing awareness of the importance of gender diversity in leadership, and efforts are being made to create more opportunities for women to excel in managerial and executive positions.

What jobs do men do and women don’t in your country?

In my country, there's a shift away from strict gender-based job roles. While there might still be some lingering stereotypes, more and more men and women are breaking through traditional barriers and pursuing careers based on their skills and interests rather than conforming to outdated norms. The idea is to encourage diversity and equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender.

Are men highly regarded in the community? Men have traditionally enjoyed a privileged status in many communities, although this is gradually changing. While men still hold a certain level of respect, especially in poorer sections of society, there's a noticeable shift towards merit-based recognition rather than gender-based. The focus is increasingly on individual capabilities and achievements rather than gender.

Are there gender role biased issues in your country? What are they? Despite progress, gender biases persist in India. Although there are laws and awareness initiatives aimed at ensuring gender equality, challenges remain. For instance, women often face extended periods of delay in advancing to higher corporate positions, and there are fewer resources available to support women entrepreneurs. Efforts like SEBI’s mandate for gender diversity on corporate boards are steps in the right direction, but gaps still exist.

Are women workers often promoted at their workplace? Women are promoted based on their talent and performance, but there are still barriers as they advance in their careers. High-level promotions can be challenging for women due to various systemic and cultural factors. While meritocracy is recognized, the pathway to higher positions can be more arduous for women.

Do gender issues affect the development of a country? Yes, gender issues can significantly impact a country’s development. Societies with greater gender equality are likely to experience more comprehensive progress and development. Gender discrimination can create dissatisfaction and hinder collective advancement. When all genders are empowered, a country can achieve more balanced and inclusive growth.

Why do you think we need to discuss issues about gender? Discussing gender issues is crucial for fostering a fair and equitable society. Addressing gender-based discrimination helps ensure that everyone can enjoy equal opportunities and rights. It contributes to overall societal well-being and progress, as every individual deserves to live without discrimination and with equal chances to thrive.

What, if any, measures has your national government implemented to combat gender-based discrimination or prejudice? The Indian government has implemented several measures to combat gender-based discrimination. Initiatives include:

  • Swadhar and Short Homes: Providing shelter for destitute women.

  • Working Women Hostels: Ensuring safety and accommodation for working women away from home.

  • Rashtriya Mahila Kosh: Offering micro-finance services to uplift poor women socio-economically.

  • One Stop Centre: Providing integrated support for women affected by violence.

These measures aim to address gender disparities and support women’s rights, contributing to a more equitable society.


What do you think are the causes of income inequality?

Income inequality arises when the benefits of economic growth are not evenly distributed among the population. For instance, China, despite its high GDP growth rates, experiences significant income inequality. Contributing factors include inadequate regulations, such as low income taxes on the wealthy and legal barriers that hinder small business owners from accessing loans to expand their operations.

What can governments do to reduce income inequality in their countries?

Governments can take several measures to reduce income inequality:

  1. Support for Entrepreneurship: Encourage lower and middle-class individuals to start businesses by offering low interest rates on loans.

  2. Improving Social Mobility: Implement policies that enhance social mobility, such as providing financial support for homeowners.

  3. Fair Taxation: Ensure that income taxes are fair and transparent, with the wealthy contributing their share similar to lower-income individuals.

Why is it important for a society to experience a decent level of gender equality?

Gender equality is crucial for both economic and social benefits. Research indicates that equal pay for women can boost global economic productivity. Moreover, gender equality promotes social stability by reducing gender-related protests and helps instill values of respect and appreciation for both genders in the younger generation.

What are the negative impacts of gender inequality?

Gender inequality can have several detrimental effects:

  1. Economic Impact: When women are confined to domestic roles, their potential economic contribution is lost. For example, Japan has seen negative economic effects due to low female workforce participation.

  2. Political Instability: Gender inequality can lead to political unrest as activists protest for women's rights and equality.

What do you think are a more precise indicator of social development, economic growth indexes or gender and income equality indexes?

Ideally, both economic growth and equality indexes should be considered to gauge social development comprehensively. Economic growth reflects a country's ability to produce and sell goods, which impacts living standards. However, equality indexes—measuring gender and income equality—are also essential as they indicate how evenly resources are distributed across different social groups. A balance of high economic growth and equitable distribution is crucial for sustainable development.


Is there sex discrimination in Vietnam?

That's an interesting question. While women in Vietnam have made significant strides in terms of status both at home and in society, there are still some areas where discrimination persists. Women work alongside men and are quite independent, thanks to their own incomes. We practice equal work and equal pay. However, male graduates often find it easier to secure jobs, and in the countryside, there's still a strong preference for sons over daughters.

How do you describe women's conditions in Vietnam?

In urban areas, women generally enjoy the same rights as men. They have access to education and job opportunities. However, in the countryside, men often dominate family dynamics, and women are more likely to be attached to their husbands' status. It's harder for rural women to get a good education or find well-paying jobs.

What are the causes of sex discrimination?

There are several reasons for sex discrimination, but the main ones include traditional views that men should play the primary role in the family and society. Men are often seen as the breadwinners and the main labor force. Additionally, women are often wrongly perceived as the weaker sex, both physically and psychologically.

What do you think of the equality between men and women in Vietnam?

In general, men and women are equal in many aspects of Vietnamese society. They have equal opportunities for education and employment and enjoy similar social status and pay. However, in some regions, particularly rural areas, women still don't enjoy the same rights as men. In many male-dominated families, wives have little say in family matters.

What role do you think women are playing in economic development?

Women are increasingly playing a crucial role in economic development, both globally and within families. Although women have repeatedly proven their capabilities, it remains challenging for them to balance career success with family life. When a career woman marries, she often has to take time off to care for her family and children, making it difficult to keep up with career advancements and changes in her field upon her return.

Should women stop work and go back home to take care of their family?

No, I don't think so. Some argue that educated women contribute to unemployment by competing with men for limited job opportunities and suggest that women should return to traditional roles. Historically, women in Vietnam played minor roles, but this is outdated thinking. If a woman gives up her career, she may feel unfulfilled and could be at a disadvantage. An empty life and potential desertion are real risks.

How far do you think women have equal access to jobs with men in modern society?

Women still face challenges in achieving equal access to jobs. A recent survey showed that men tend to hold more managerial and professional positions, while women are often in traditionally "feminine" roles like nursing, teaching, and office work. However, there are more and more women pioneering into other fields, challenging these stereotypes.

New are the society?

Women are no longer seen as the inferior sex, although some men still think women rely more on intuition and instinct than on reasoning. With the Women's Liberation Movement, many women have realized that, given equal opportunities, they can be just as smart and capable as men. To be respected and acknowledged, women must continue to strive for self-esteem, pride, self-confidence, and independence.


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