Poverty and female headship in the state of Guerrero, Mexico. Diagnostic elements
Keywords:
pobreza, jefatura femenina, empoderamiento, región, pobladoAbstract
The state of Guerrero ranks third in the country in terms of female-headed households. Despite this, government agencies design their policies without considering a gender perspective. The diagnostic elements presented here highlight the need to incorporate the perspectives and interests of female heads of household into public policies, emphasizing their high presence and the poverty in which many of these women live. Based on statistical data and testimonies, it is evident that female heads of household face gender inequalities, an excessive burden of domestic work, and limited employment opportunities, which negatively impacts their quality of life. The research shows that these women often assume the role of head of household due to widowhood, separation, or abandonment, and that, although they contribute significantly to family support, their work is under-recognized. Furthermore, difficulties in accessing housing, credit, and property ownership are identified. Despite these challenges, some achieve a degree of empowerment by making decisions within the household. The study concludes that it is necessary to incorporate a gender perspective into public policies to improve their conditions and promote their economic and social autonomy.
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