11 trillion US Dollars. That’s care work’s contribution to the global economy. Disproportionately undertaken by women, this invisible labour limits their time and opportunities. Metropolis brought together 20 leaders from Middle Eastern, Latin American and Eurasian metropolises in two Solutions Labs to explore local care systems and gender-equitable cities. What did we learn?
From Istanbul to Belo Horizonte, Lahore to Baghdad, women’s time poverty is universal. Some cities are addressing this through integrated care policies. In Bogotá, where 1,2 million women dedicate 7 hours daily to unpaid care, public laundry services in combination with childcare and leisure activities have freed up 12,148 hours of women’s time. Where might cities start?
A strong narrative is key to build political will and departmental collaboration
Work with existing local services and infrastructure
Couple services for caregivers and care-receivers, prioritizing simultaneity, proximity and flexibility
Globally, women account for 35.5% of local government positions. Yet, gender-equitable cities require both equitable representation and gender-sensitive approaches to community needs. How?
Gender-disaggregated data is a critical starting point
Inclusive gender perspectives must be integrated throughout the policy process
Harmful social norms can be shifted through education and campaigns, but these must involve men and women alike.
The Labs took place online and in Istanbul, co-hosted by Marmara Municipalities Union. Solutions Lab #9 on ‘Developing Care Systems’ will take place again in October, in Dakar. Are you a local from an African metropolis, and interested to participate? Get in touch!
Read Marmara Municipalities Union’s blog on the Solutions Labs
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