engleski

The relevance of gender for rural development in Croatia

Researchers have observed that the integration of equal opportunities (employment, enterprise, education, training, reconciliation of professional and family life) is an obligation and that the full involvement of both women and men is vital to maintain the social fabric of rural communities and to revitalise rural economies. Beyond doubt, equality of opportunity necessary for the viability and sustainability of rural development needs to be investigated to assure the future of rural Europe. In particular, there is a pressing need to pay attention to the conditions, situations and specific needs of rural men and women in Croatia with regard to equality of opportunity as very little so far has been written on their experiences of life and work in rural contexts. Moreover, inequalities that have resulted from recent social and economic changes following transition and war and the impact of these disadvantages are especially evident in higher levels of social deprivation and unemployment as well as inadequate infrastructure in rural communities throughout Croatia. Thus, there is a strong need to address gender disparities (gaps/differences) and inequalities that are barriers to development in rural areas to reduce poverty and enhance economic growth, well-being and development. In addition, there is a need to explain how gender differences in economic rural life have been generated and how they are sustained. Specifically, this paper explores the different roles/statuses that rural women and men take on and whether statistical data and definitions accurately reflect the work that both women and men do in rural areas. It also explores whether people in rural areas have to make work and social life decisions in environments that constrict their choices. This study attempts to identify the obstacles/constraints (attitudinal, cultural, and geographical) on rural women's and men's full participation in economic, public and social life. Findings suggest that by quantifying the importance of different types of work carried out in rural areas and by eradicating the barriers the visibility of those who are invisible can be raised in rural policy. In addition, the importance of the need to represent and acknowledge the diversity that exists between rural communities in Croatia as well as among the genders in research as well as in the policy process and implementation is also highlighted.

gender; equality of opportunity; rural development

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