Topic: 2024-Unpaid Care and Domestic Work
Country: Russian Federation
Delegate Name: Jacob Zhang
United Nations Women
Unpaid Care and Domestic Work
Russian Federation
Jacob Zhang
Forest Hills Northern High School
In the Russian Federation, unpaid care and domestic work are important components of socioeconomic life, especially in maintaining the well-being of the household and community. Unfortunately, this issue has fallen disproportionately on women, especially in rural areas and households with many generations. This issue relates to gender inequality because many women often struggle to work outside of the home due to their time spent on tasks with unpaid care., Addressing these issues will require a realistic and sensible approach that respects the values and sovereignty of each nation while promoting the well-being of families and communities.
In Russia, unpaid care work has worsened financial challenges such as insufficient childcare facilities and elder care, as well as persistent gender wage gaps. On average women working full time are paid around 85 percent of what men are paid. Many women take on traditional caregiving roles in areas with limited social service. The lack of flexibility in this type of work has reduced opportunities for women to achieve economic independence. Addressing these challenges is the first step in making gradual systematic changes necessary.
Despite these challenges, Russia has already made progress in alleviating the consequences of prolonged unpaid care and domestic work. Government-funded programs like the Maternity Capital Program have provided financial support for families. The program has helped to ease economic pressure on families, and has started to slightly contribute to reducing financial inequality. Additionally, vocational training programs have been introduced to help increase employment for women. These programs aim to equip women with new skills and qualifications, helping them transition into the workforce. Russia prioritizes sovereignty and gradual, state-led reform over time.
To address unpaid care work, Russia proposes expanding childcare and elder care services, as well as employment training and flexible work for women to prioritize more economic participation. Russia calls for international collaboration to share more effective practices and provide support, while further emphasizing solutions that respect national sovereignty and culture. These steps aim to slowly disperse the burden on women while they advance the social and economic state of the world.
