The increased awareness of the value of diverse perspectives and skill sets has led to greater opportunities for women in the security sector
Over the past 20 years, the security sector in India has experienced significant changes, particularly in terms of gender diversity. As we work towards a safe and inclusive future, it is essential to examine the evolution of women in corporate security in India. With over 23 years of experience in the corporate security world, I have personally observed the shifting landscape of opportunities and challenges for women in the industry.
Although substantial progress has been made in recent decades, there are still critical issues that require our immediate attention. By comparing the scenarios of the past with the current situation, we can gain a better understanding of the advancements made and the path forward.
The Evolution of Corporate Security: A 20-Year Odyssey:
Two decades ago, the corporate security landscape in India was predominantly male-oriented, with limited opportunities for women to make a substantial impact. Traditional gender stereotypes hindered women’s potential in the security sector and discouraged them from pursuing male-dominated professions. Women aspiring to excel in corporate security, risk management, and other security-related fields faced prejudices and societal norms that posed significant barriers. Furthermore, limited educational and career options restricted the progress of women in the industry.
Despite these challenges, some pioneering women defied convention and forged a path in the security sector, paving the way for others to follow.
As we look at the present day, the transformation has been remarkable. The increased awareness of the value of diverse perspectives and skill sets has led to greater opportunities for women in the security sector. Educational institutions have responded by offering specialised programmesin risk management, security, cybersecurity, and related fields, thereby encouraging more women to consider careers in security. Various initiatives have emerged to support women in the industry, providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and skill development. As a result, we are witnessing a surge in the number of women across the nation taking on key roles in threat intelligence, cybersecurity, and security management.
While progress has been made, the journey is not without its challenges. I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to travel extensively and gain insights into the global situation, including the longer history of women’s contributions in the security sector in some developed nations, where they have benefited from more established gender equality frameworks. However, gender disparities remain a persistent issue worldwide, with many regions still grappling with underrepresentation of women in the security sector.
Challenges In Showcasing Women’s Potential:
In India, despite the advancements made in the corporate sector towards gender equality, women still face significant challenges in showcasing their potential. These challenges can vary based on factors such as sector, region, and corporate culture. Here are some common obstacles that women encounter:
Gender Bias and Stereotypes: Women often navigate preconceived notions about their abilities and leadership styles, which can hinder their progress.
Glass Ceiling: Limited representation of women in top-tier roles can perpetuate this issue.
Lack of Mentorship and Role Models: The absence of visible female leaders can make it challenging for women to envision their own success and growth within the organisation.
Unequal Pay: The gender pay gap remains a persistent issue in many industries, with women earning less than their male counterparts for similar roles. This disparity can be demotivating and contribute to feelings of undervaluation.
Double Standards: Traits perceived as assertive in men may be labelled as aggressive in women, leading to a double standard in expectations and evaluations.
Inadequate Representation in Decision-Making: Limited representation of women in key decision-making bodies within an organisation can result in policies and practices that do not fully consider or address the needs and concerns of female employees.
The Path Forward
The challenges for women, particularly those without military experience, can be significant. The common belief that military background and physical strength are essential for security positions can create barriers for women. This bias, combined with the predominance of ex-military personnel in leadership roles, can create a glass ceiling for those entering the sector from non-military backgrounds.
The diverse skill set that women bring—such as strategic thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving—often gets overlooked due to these biases. While ex-servicemen’s experiences are valuable, it’s crucial to recognise that effective security requires a multi-faceted approach that includes various skills.
As we envision the future, it’s essential to work towards a security sector that mirrors the diversity of our nation. We must advocate for a culture where women, regardless of their background, are not only welcomed but also provided with equal opportunities for. To achieve this, we must challenge and redefine the stereotypes associated with security roles.
Over the past two decades, Indian women in security have shown resilience and growth, despite ongoing challenges in achieving equal representation. As a corporate professional, I am optimistic about the future, believing that sustained efforts—such as inclusive policies, mentorship programmes, diversity training, and a commitment to a culture valuing all employees, regardless of gender—will lead to a more innovative, diverse, and robust security sector.
-By REKHA GAIROLA, CFE, CRT ,Global Leader in Security & Risk Assessment/ Resilience, POSH Trainer
