Women in fisheries in Latin America

Abstract

Latin American governments are not sufficiently aware of the problems of women in fisheries. Therefore, they have not invested sufficient human or financial resources to respond to the needs of women in fisheries. In cases where investments have been made, they have been inadequate. With a few exceptions, most Latin American countries do not have adequate data and information about the situation of women in fisheries. There is some information about women's role in the sector, their psychological profile, and life conditions, but there is a lack of information on women's participation, needs and expectations in the sector. Besides domestic work, women are traditionally involved in fishing and aquaculture activities. Women lack access to technical training and training in microenterprises and community organizations, even in countries with experience in these areas. Women in fishing communities also lack access to credit or to co-financing systems for running their activities. Women are more involved in seafood processing, marketing, and aquaculture, compared to capture fisheries. They also work at the artisanal level, frequently without any remuneration. However, women are gradually occupying spaces and roles that were historically occupied by men.