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Women & Work

Women & Work. The “Formal” Sector. Katheryn Ward & Jean Larson:. “Women’s industrial labor & its relation to informal & household work can be understood only in the larger context of changes in the world economy”. 3 Major transformations:.

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Women & Work

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  1. Women & Work The “Formal” Sector

  2. Katheryn Ward & Jean Larson: “Women’s industrial labor & its relation to informal & household work can be understood only in the larger context of changes in the world economy”

  3. 3 Major transformations: • Debt crisis • Export-oriented growth promoted by IMF • Globalization of production promoted by MNCs

  4. Maquiladoras: The Global Assembly Line • N. Mexico – economic enclave operating on neoliberal principles • Transition to gendered labor processes • Feminization of the work force • Least skilled jobs • Cheapened wages • $25-$35/week

  5. Industrialization in Latin America • Male employment • Secure jobs • Wages • Social benefits • Union organization • Shift to Neoliberalism • Women were central to deregulation, casualization, flexibilization of labor

  6. These bring changes to households, class & gender relations • Gender is a relationship in the process of formation

  7. The Debate • Apologists: • Generate jobs, provide new work opportunities for women • Critics: • Increase Mexico’s economic dependence • Eliminate domestic production • More jobs lost than created • Lack unionization • Contribute to environmental degradation

  8. Some Specifics: • Only 10% unionized • Long hours, forced overtime • Unsafe working conditions • Blacklisting • Unsuitable housing • Pregnancy testing (avoid maternity leave) • Pressure to leave (avoid paying benefits) • Relocation for lower wages

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