La mujer rural: su papel en los agrosistemas de la región semiseca de Centroamérica

Abstract

In this book, women’s role in agricultural production systems in the semidry areas of Central american countries is described and analyzed, in relation to male farming activities. Possible changes in her position in the household and in the rural society are discussed. A description of major ecological factors relating to farming on semidry hillsides, and the low agricultural productivity in these degraded areas are presented. A methodological framework for gender analysis in the context of sustainable development of small farming systems is given, followed by six case studies. Recommendations on research methodology and on the relationship between development projects and rural women are given. Although labour is divided along traditional lines (men and women having specific and more or less separate roles and spheres of action), farming systems show enormous flexibility in gender roles and time allocation when adapting to adverse circumstances. This provides opportunities not only for changing women role more permanently but also for redirecting farming practices in view of the growing ecological degradation.