Explore how cash transfer programs in the Pacific are reshaping women’s unpaid care work, balancing tradition and policy to tackle poverty, gender inequality, and vulnerability in a changing world.
Reducing poverty and inequality particularly gender equality is a pervasive challenge globally and a pressing issue in the international development sector. In the Pacific region, the advancement of gender equality and economic growth are central on the international development policy and practice agenda. State-based social protection schemes, particularly social assistance as cash transfers programs, are increasingly being promoted and used in the Pacific to address poverty, inequality and other forms of vulnerability due to economic shocks, disaster and climate change. Formal social protection programs co-exist with traditional social safety nets which are integral in maintaining collective and individual wellbeing. This research focuses on cash transfer programs that aim to support women’s unpaid care work through schemes such as child, maternity, care and poverty allowances. It will explore women’s experiences of these programs in the context of traditional cultural systems, development and gendered social norms. The proposed research includes case studies of Cook Islands, Fiji and Marshall Islands. This Confirmation of Candidature seminar will outline Hilary’s thesis proposal with a focus on the research background, approach and fieldwork.
