Category: Communities coming together to overcome GBV
Subcategory: Policy Briefs
Abstract
"Gender and the Bifurcation of Paid and Unpaid Care Work," takes a close look at how work is divided between genders, especially when it comes to care. It points out how women, especially in South Africa, end up doing the majority of unpaid care work, like household chores and caregiving. This isn’t just a random occurrence; it’s tied to societal norms and economic structures that unfairly place this burden on women.
The piece also highlights that care work—whether unpaid or paid—is undervalued, even though it’s vital for keeping families and communities running. Paid care work, often done by women, doesn’t pay well or get much recognition, leaving many stuck in financial struggles.
Makhathini emphasises the need for big changes, like policies that share the load of unpaid care work more fairly and ensure paid care workers get better pay and conditions. These steps wouldn’t just help women but would also make society more balanced and inclusive.