Social Reproduction: A Key Issue for Feminist Solidarity Economy

Abstract

The current organization of social reproduction, based on unequal gender, class and race relations, on oppression and dispossession, is the condition for accumulation in the globalized capitalist system. It is also, increasingly, a terrain for struggles and social transformations. We define social reproduction as all the activities, social relations and institutions that are necessary for the reproduction of life, today and for future generations. This definition is enriched by the contributions of the practices and

Politics of the Poor and Political Work

“…Women spent a considerable amount of time and effort in political negotiations over and above their work of fish selling, similar to the women in the rehabilitation areas whose everyday political negotiations were perceived as an extension of their domestic work. In exchanges with other researchers in this project (Guérin et al, 2021; Karunakaran, 2021), we noticed that women were having to engage in everyday politics in addition to their reproductive roles and paid work with women having to develop and hone their ability to negotiate and bargain with employers and the State. These tactical skills included the ability to identify ‘windows of opportunity’ on when and who to approach, making decisions on whether to negotiate, keep a low profile, complain or pay a bribe (Guérin et al, 2021).…”

“…In exchanges with other researchers in this project (Guérin et al, 2021; Karunakaran, 2021), we noticed that women were having to engage in everyday politics in addition to their reproductive roles and paid work with women having to develop and hone their ability to negotiate and bargain with employers and the State. These tactical skills included the ability to identify ‘windows of opportunity’ on when and who to approach, making decisions on whether to negotiate, keep a low profile, complain or pay a bribe (Guérin et al, 2021).…”