In many parts of the world, patriarchal expectations continue to dictate how women should live — prescribing “proper” behavior, obedience, and modesty, while denying them the right to self-determination.
In some societies, gender bias begins at birth. In places where the sex of the child still matters, the birth of a girl is often seen as a disappointment. For those who survive selective abortions, life can become a constant struggle for voice, safety, and choice.
Phrases like “You’re a girl, you can’t. Wait until you marry and your husband allows it” remain common, acting as a cultural code that cements inequality and limits opportunity.
A Controversial Statement Sparks Outrage
Against this backdrop, economist Farhad Parvizi recently claimed that after 1960 — when women in the U.S. entered the workforce en masse — the rate of infidelity among women rose from 15% to 52%, matching male rates.
“If you neglect a woman, stop controlling her, and fail to instill fundamental values against infidelity, she will cheat,” Parvizi asserted, adding that 85% of female infidelity occurs in the workplace.
Following these remarks, social media erupted. A group of feminists petitioned Baker Tilly International, where Parvizi worked, demanding action. Rumors of his dismissal circulated, but both the company and Parvizi later stated he had resigned voluntarily to pursue entrepreneurial projects.
Can You Be Fired for Public Remarks?
Human resources expert Gamida Ismailova explained that offensive or discriminatory public statements damaging a company’s reputation can, under Article 72(e) of Azerbaijan’s Labor Code, be grounds for dismissal.
The key requirement: proven harm to the employer’s image. Company codes of ethics often strengthen this legal basis — if internal policies explicitly forbid such conduct, they provide an additional legal foundation for termination.
What Women Themselves Say
We asked women for their reactions. Responses varied, but all centered on the right to personal choice:
“The choice belongs solely to the woman, not her family’s men,” one participant said, stressing the link between female independence and societal well-being.
Another remarked: “Society should stay out of a woman’s life.”
A third added: “A married woman should have the freedom to decide — work or stay home.”
Education as the Foundation of Change
The words of philanthropist Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev remain timeless:
“Educate a boy, and you get an educated man; educate a girl, and you get an educated family.”
An educated, empowered woman is an investment in the future — one that builds a progressive, resilient society free from prejudice and violence.
Source: 1news.az
