Feminization of poverty facts for kids

The feminization of poverty means that women and girls around the world are more likely to be poor than men and boys. It also means that the number of poor women is growing faster than the number of poor men.

Poverty means not having enough money for basic needs. This includes things like food, clean water, a safe home, and proper toilets. When women are poor, it often affects their children and families too.

What is the Feminization of Poverty?

This term describes a worldwide trend. It shows that women face more challenges that can lead to poverty. This can happen because of many reasons, like how jobs are shared or how families are structured.

Why are More Women Poor?

There are several important reasons why women are more likely to experience poverty. These reasons often work together, making it harder for women to escape poverty.

Unequal Pay

Even though it is illegal in many places, women sometimes get paid less than men for doing the same job. This means women earn less money over their lifetime. This makes it harder for them to save or support their families.

Job Opportunities

Women sometimes have fewer chances to get good jobs. They might be offered jobs that pay less or are not steady. In some parts of the world, women might not be allowed to work in certain jobs at all. This limits their ability to earn a living.

Single-Parent Families

Many families are led by a single mother. These mothers often have to work and take care of their children at the same time. This can be very hard. It can limit their work hours or the types of jobs they can take. This often puts a big financial strain on the family.

Gender Bias

Gender bias, sometimes called sexism, means treating someone unfairly because of their gender. This can affect women's education, job opportunities, and even their rights to own land or money. These unfair rules and ideas can push women into poverty.

How Does This Affect Families?

When women are poor, it affects everyone around them. Women often use their money to support their children and household. If a mother has less money, it can mean her children might not get enough food, good healthcare, or a proper education. This can keep families stuck in a cycle of poverty.

What Can Be Done?

Many people and groups are working to help women and girls escape poverty. This includes making sure girls get a good education. It also means fighting for equal pay and better job chances for women. Supporting single mothers with childcare and other help can also make a big difference.

Images for kids

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  Mothers often experience poverty more extremely because they have more demands on time, energy and resources. This woman farmer in Northern Kenya is part of a mother support group that creates peer support across 13 mothers, to learn about parenting and economic practices.

See also

In Spanish: Feminización de la pobreza para niños