The Current Economic and Financial Crisis: a Gender Perspective

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The Current Economic and Financial Crisis: a Gender Perspective

By Rania Antonopoulos, Levy Institute

 

SUMMARY

“The Current Economic and Financial Crisis: A Gender Perspective”
by Rania Antonopoulos, Levy Institute

Note: this is the summary of a larger paper, which Prof. Rania Antonopoulos presented at an
event, co-sponsored by the Heinrich Böll Foundation North America, the Center of Concern, and
the Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR) on April 22, 2009

I. INTRODUCTION
What began as a subprime mortgage debacle in the United States has by now affected every
single country. Historically, financial crises have been distinctly harsh on women and the poor.
Not only because they have little to cushion them when the crisis hits, but also, because when
normal times return, they are left behind. According to estimates of the World Bank, UNDP and
the ILO this crisis is already reversing gains made over the last decade in poverty reduction and
gender equality. One of the critical issues this crisis has highlighted is that markets cannot
deliver everything in and of themselves. A “hands off” approach is not always the best way to
go, and should problems be left unattended, human development and socioeconomic stability
may be dealt severe blows, with long lasting consequences. Policymakers ought to take
coordinated steps to fuel economic growth without neglecting this time around the vulnerable
and socially excluded groups.

Click here to download the summary (pdf).

 
 
 
 
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