UNICEF Market supports many economic and cultural issues. One that is very close to our heart is the empowerment of women. In many societies and culture women are under appreciated in their social status and contributions. Many of their economic contributions go unrecognized. We believe that women have the ability to change their own economic status, and in doing so drive change on a macro level and impact the status of those in their communities and countries.
Research shows that women in many cultures and countries are still underpaid compared to their male counterparts. Women will receive fewer opportunities compared to men and in all countries they are the primary care givers within the household. People may feel that this isn’t a global issue, but the statistics show that when these scenarios occur the country’s economic growth slows and ultimately the country suffers.
We trust the experts and they have found that the single biggest factor in achieving equality between women and their male counterparts is to provide women with the chance for economic empowerment – that is their ability to shape their own destiny and bring about the change themselves by positive action. The empowerment of women is not just an economic issue, it can also drive change and improvement in women’s rights. When countries, and even continents work together to empower women, they can help improve their entire region’s chance to compete on the international stage.
How We Can Provide Empowerment of Women:
- Studies show that in areas where women’s involvement in the workforce grew the quickest, the number of people who were considered lower income dropped; meaning more people were above the poverty line.
- When women manage property, they have a much higher rate of profiting than men as they are more likely to increase the property value or create a business from the land.
- When women have access to technology – like a water pump – there is an economic benefit to the entire region. ICRW’s research has found that technology helps women raise income levels by creating enterprise. This allows the women to contribute economically to their families, communities and nations and to take on leadership roles in this arena.
The important thing to note? Invest in women, empower women and help them level the playing field. The benefit to your region and country will be clear for all to see. UNICEF Market helps our women artisans improve their economic future, by getting the artisans products into the hands of our supporters. Click here to see some of our artisans at work.
