THE CHALLENGES WOMEN FACE IN THE BLUE ECONOMY

Abstract

There are four major challenges that women face in the Blue Economy: Structural - Big companies don't reach the small scale fisheries, where women usually work. Despite the fact that women provide more than 85% of the landed catch, even when investment is available it reaches men first. Sociocultural - Social attitudes frown on and punish women for being in certain spaces. Discriminatory gender and social stereotypes ban women from taking part in areas of the Blue Economy. Capacity - Women engaged in the Blue Economy lack access to capital, investments, and equipment to grow their businesses. Lack of women’s voices - Women's voices are absent in their majority.