Introduction
Unpaid labour refers to all forms of work that are not financially compensated. This includes household chores, caregiving, and voluntary community service. While unpaid work contributes significantly to the economy and society, it is often undervalued and unrecognized in national statistics. A large portion of unpaid labour is carried out by women, leading to gender segregation in both paid and unpaid work sectors.
Definition and Examples of Unpaid Labour
Unpaid labour involves work that does not receive a salary or wage. Common examples include:
- Cooking and cleaning in the household
- Caring for children, the elderly, and the sick
- Fetching water and firewood in rural areas
- Volunteering in schools or community events
Though unpaid, this labour is essential for the well-being of families and the smooth functioning of society.
Gender Segregation in Unpaid Work
Gender segregation refers to the unequal distribution of tasks between men and women. In most societies, unpaid labour is seen as the natural responsibility of women, while men engage more in paid employment.
1. Time Use Patterns
- Women spend more hours daily on unpaid domestic work compared to men.
- According to India’s NSSO time use survey, women spend around 5 hours a day on unpaid care work, while men spend less than 1 hour.
2. Invisible Contribution
- Unpaid labour by women is often ignored in GDP and economic planning.
- This leads to an underestimation of women’s contributions to the economy.
3. Double Burden
- Women who participate in paid work still carry the major responsibility for unpaid domestic tasks.
- This dual workload can lead to stress and reduced opportunities for leisure or skill development.
4. Impact on Women’s Economic Participation
- The burden of unpaid work prevents many women from taking up full-time jobs or education.
- Even when employed, women are often forced into part-time or low-paying jobs.
Why Is It a Concern?
- Inequality: It reinforces gender inequality and limits women’s choices.
- Lack of Recognition: Governments and employers often ignore the value of unpaid labour in policymaking.
- Poverty: Women in poor households bear a heavier burden due to lack of access to services and infrastructure.
Measures to Address Gender Segregation in Unpaid Work
1. Recognition and Valuation
- Include unpaid labour in national accounts and surveys.
- Recognize women’s domestic and care work as economic activities.
2. Redistribution of Work
- Promote equal sharing of domestic tasks between men and women.
- Encourage men’s participation in caregiving through awareness campaigns.
3. Government Policies
- Provide social protection like maternity benefits and pensions for unpaid caregivers.
- Expand access to child care centers, clean water, and cooking fuel to reduce unpaid labour burden.
4. Women’s Empowerment
- Support skill development and education for women to access better employment opportunities.
- Recognize the leadership of women in local governance and community work.
Conclusion
Unpaid labour, particularly by women, forms the backbone of societies and economies. However, its invisibility in statistics and policies results in gender-based inequality and limits women’s progress. Addressing gender segregation in unpaid work is crucial for building a just and inclusive society. Recognition, redistribution, and support through policies can ensure that both men and women contribute to and benefit equally from development.