Women's participation in the informal sector of Uzbekistan
Date
1997
Authors
Zimmerman, Shelley Ann
Major Professor
Advisor
Whiteford, Michael B.
Committee Member
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Abstract
Newly independent Uzbekistan is encountering increasingly complex challenges since 1991. As with many former Soviet republics, Uzbekistan has faced the loss of security, markets, resources and structure, making the transition to a market economy exceedingly difficult. The resultant pressures on individuals and families are evident. The role of Uzbek women in society has also changed significantly with the political and religious changes of the country. During Communist influence, Uzbek women saw their role as caretakers of the home transformed into one of active membership in the socialist economy. Despite the transformations of her participation in society, the Uzbek woman has remained the spiritual leader of the family, ultimately responsible for the safety and welfare of her children. It is in this capacity that she has established a long and stable history in the informal sector of the economy where she often has turned in an attempt to increase resources available to her household. Women's participation in the informal sector of the economy is evident since independence, despite the return to Uzbek and Islamic traditions. This economic activity by women, has been an incremental method of adaptation for Uzbek families who face economic hardship due to independence. This paper focuses on women's participation in the informal sector of the economy of Uzbekistan, against the backdrop of the changes that have recently taken place in the country, and in consideration of the future possibilities. A better understanding of the changing economic role for women can aid in drawing a clear picture of the impact of a changing economy on the society, and can add insight into adaptive strategies adopted by those most affected by the changes.
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