Rita Aivazova and B. Megrabyan
International Association of Armenian Women "Aiastan"
Center of Environmental-Noosphere Research, Academy of Science of Armenia
375025 Yerevan
Ul. Charentsa 19
ARMENIA
TEL: (8852)55-1361
Environmental extremity can be defined as excessively constrained conditions for the functioning of biodiversity. Environmental extremity is usually of anthropogenic origin, although it is often combined with natural factors. Women are usually more affected by eco-extremity. Environmental constraints affect their biological, psychological and social integrities and limit their possibilities to perform natural functions, both reproductive and social. In other words, the natural and civil (social) rights of women are violated under conditions of eco-extremity.
In Armenia two peaks of catastrophes (nature and social) have been recently intertwined. This country is the best object for studying dynamics of women's status under environmental extremities. Here, in a small area (30.000 sq.km) with an amazing diversity of natural and social conditions, one can get, first, the most expressive image of women's life under eco-extremity, and, second, create a research model applicable to other countries and regions. Such a model could address the complexity of women's status in relation to: demographic processes, needs of consumption, economy and social sphere, family relations, physical and mental health of children. Our Center is eager to present a large-scale program of such a research.
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