HOW GENDER INEQUALITY CONTRIBUTES TO POVERTY

Gender and poverty are two interconnected issues that have been the focus of academic and policy discussions for several decades.

While poverty affects both men and women, it is widely acknowledged that women are more likely to experience poverty than men.

This is due to various reasons, including discrimination, unequal access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Poverty and gender inequality are also closely linked to wider issues of social inequality and discrimination.

Invisible or artificial barriers exist which prevent women from advancing within their jobs or receiving promotions.

Gender Inequality 

One of the main reasons for the connection between gender and poverty is the persistence of gender-based discrimination in many societies. Discrimination against women in education, employment, and other areas of social life has the effect of limiting their opportunities and access to resources, leading to a higher likelihood of poverty. Women are often paid less than men for the same work and are also more likely to be employed in low-paying jobs or work in the informal sector, where there are no employment protections or benefits. This lack of economic security makes women more vulnerable to poverty, especially when they are also responsible for the care of children or elderly family members.

Economic Insecurity

In many societies, women are also more likely to be responsible for unpaid care work, such as childcare, cooking, and cleaning. This work is often undervalued and unremunerated, making it difficult for women to access paid work and earn a living wage. This contributes to their increased vulnerability to poverty, as they are reliant on their partners or family members for support.

Furthermore, gender-based violence is another factor that contributes to the connection between gender and poverty. Women who experience violence from their partners or family members may be forced to leave their homes or lose their jobs, which can lead to financial instability and poverty.

In Africa, girls face considerable barriers to attending equal status to men in terms of property ownership, gainful employment, political power, credit, education, and health outcomes.

Intersectional Discrimination

The connection between gender and poverty is closely related to wider issues of inequality and discrimination. Women who experience poverty are also likely to experience other forms of discrimination, such as racial or ethnic discrimination, or discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. This intersectional discrimination can make it even harder for women to access resources and opportunities, further perpetuating the cycle of poverty.

Complex and Multifaceted

Throughout life, males and females are seen as two very different species who have very different personalities and should stay on separate paths.

In conclusion, the connection between gender and poverty is complex and multifaceted. Gender-based discrimination, unequal access to resources and opportunities, and gender-based violence are all factors that contribute to women’s increased vulnerability to poverty. Poverty and gender inequality are also closely linked to wider issues of social inequality and discrimination. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that takes into account the intersectional nature of discrimination and seeks to address the root causes of poverty and inequality.