Improving Family and Work Balance in Rural Areas

Abstract

Women in rural areas play a vital role in driving sustainability and innovation, but their potential is often limited by unequal caregiving responsibilities and patriarchal environments. The Italian case studies from the FLIARA project highlight ongoing shortcomings in family-work balance policies (e.g. in terms of maternity leave, availability of kindergartens and children care facilities, availability of territorial health services) that hinder rural women’s leadership opportunities. Strengthening childcare infrastructure, promoting a relief support system, providing preventive and curative health services in rural areas, and implementing gender-sensitive funding can help break down these barriers, empowering women as leaders and entrepreneurs.