World News for Students of English

16-03-2026 15:00

A new global survey has started a strong debate online.

The study asked more than 23,000 adults in 29 countries about gender roles and equality. It shows that almost one-third of Gen Z men believe a wife should obey her husband. This share is much higher than among older men. Many people reacted with anger on social media.

The results show a clear divide between young men and young women. Many young women support equal roles in work and family life. However, many young men say they prefer more traditional roles, where the man has more control in the home. The survey also found that some young men believe men are now asked to do too much to support equality.

Experts say social media influencers and political messages may support these views. Some young women say these attitudes make them feel worried about their future. Researchers say progress will require men and women to work together to build a fair society.

Difficult words: equality (when people have the same rights and opportunities), obey (to do what someone tells you to do), equal (the same in rights, value, or importance).

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