Feminization of poverty. (UPSC CSE Mains 2015 - Sociology, Paper 2).
The term "feminization of poverty" refers to the disproportionate and increasing representation of women among the world''s poor. It highlights how poverty is not only a socio-economic issue but also a gendered one. This phenomenon has been a subject of concern and research for decades, shedding light on the unique challenges and vulnerabilities faced by women in impoverished communities.
Understanding the Feminization of Poverty:
- Disproportionate Poverty Among Women:
- Women make up a significant percentage of the world''s poor population. This is due to a combination of factors, including limited access to education and employment opportunities, wage gaps, and discriminatory practices.
- Single-Parent Households:
- Female-headed households are more likely to experience poverty. Women who are single mothers often face difficulties in providing for their families due to limited financial resources and support systems.
- Limited Access to Resources:
- Women, particularly in developing countries, often have restricted access to resources such as land, credit, and technology. This limits their ability to generate income and escape poverty.
- Unpaid Care Work:
- Women are disproportionately responsible for unpaid care work, including childcare, eldercare, and household chores. This restricts their participation in the formal workforce and economic opportunities.
Factors Contributing to the Feminization of Poverty:
- Gender Wage Gap:
- Across the world, women generally earn less than men for the same work. This wage gap results in lower incomes, making women more susceptible to poverty.
- Educational Disparities:
- Limited access to quality education for girls and women reduces their chances of acquiring the skills and qualifications needed for higher-paying jobs.
- Gender-Based Violence:
- Gender-based violence, including domestic violence and sexual harassment, often traps women in poverty by limiting their ability to seek employment or access support services.
Examples:
- In rural areas of many developing countries, women are engaged in subsistence farming, but they often lack ownership of land and access to agricultural resources, perpetuating their poverty.
- The global COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the feminization of poverty, with women more likely to lose jobs in sectors like hospitality and retail, and the burden of increased caregiving responsibilities falling heavily on them.
The feminization of poverty underscores the interconnectedness of gender and socio-economic disparities. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach that includes closing the gender wage gap, promoting women''s education and skill development, improving access to resources, and combating gender-based violence. Recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by women in poverty is essential for achieving gender equality and eradicating poverty on a global scale.
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