The Participation of Women in the Informal Sector and Poverty Reduction in the City of Fez
Author: Belhorma, Souad , belhormasouad23@gmail.com
Department: English Department
University: Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah University , Morocco
Year of completion: In progress
Language of dissertation: English
Keywords:
Women
, Informal Sector
, Poverty Reduction
, Morocco
Areas of Research:
Poverty, Social Welfare and Social Policy
, Women in Society
, Work
Abstract
The research aims to study the participation of women in the informal sector and the extent of their contribution through self-employment to the household poverty reduction in the city of Fez. It is based on a mixed-method approach, where data are collected using quantitative and qualitative research methods. It also uses descriptive statistical and ethnographic analysis of the data obtained from questionnaires and interviews in order to reach logical conclusions. The results show a high participation rate, statistically significant, of women in the city of Fez who work in the sectors of the informal economy. The unregulated work activities can be considered as an important tool to create job opportunities for many women living in difficult social and economic conditions. Because of the pressure on the inadequate living budget, the study reveals that most respondents effectively contribute to the financial expenses of the family, where they struggle to secure a source of livelihood as well as an increase in the productivity, thus their income. Therefore, they attempt to reduce poverty and maintain the survival and the unity within the family. Moreover, the study reveals that women's participation in political and civil life is almost non-existent due to many reasons such as the social, cultural obstacles as well as the patriarchal society that prevent their effective participation. It also increases their reluctance of political and social work. The research also shows that many of the women surveyed in the field research are facing many obstacles and difficulties, which negatively affect both their performance of economic activities and limit the development of their economic and social situation. Despite this, and through women’s opinions and ambitions, most of them insist on challenging these barriers and obstacles with determination and a strong desire to express their aspirations and hope for a better future.
