2004-2005:
Project: Qualitative Study of "alternative" economy in
Bulgaria
This project refers to the analysis of informal or alternative economy employment in
Bulgaria. This type of employment has important links with the situation of the
working poor as it has been documented that apparently "formal jobs" are being taken
up by women for lower pay, no social security protection and other negative
conditions. References to the levels of education of women engaged in this type of
employment as well as highlighting differences by age, urban-rural and other
relevant differences such as ethnic group.Main objective
The main objective of the activities described in this TOR is to document and analyse gender aspects of the "alternative economy" in Bulgaria and women's involvement it different types of "undeclared" work on the basis of qualitative research. This will contribute to the regional study under the UNIFEM economic and social rights programme, and will supply women's organizations with information and analyses for advocacy that will also inform policy, decision and opinion makers.
In addition to undertaking the Study and disseminating the findings, the implementing organization will facilitate dialogue/consultation with government and women's organizations about the findings and their implications for necessary policy change.
Expected outputs:
As a main project result the implementing organisation will produce in-depth analyses of gender aspects of the "alternative economy" in a post-socialist socio-economic environment focusing on the structure, roots and persistence, main characteristics and specificities of the "shadow" economy in the context of global transformation in Bulgaria and its impact on women's economic opportunities. The data and analyses obtained will significantly contribute to the UNIFEM CEE's regional study on labour market.
At project completion the women from the National Network for Equal Opportunities (NNEO) will have been trained in conducting a qualitative research and on interpretation of social data, and will have applied it to the problem at hand. This will be one of the most important and sustainable results of the project.
Sponsor: UNIFEM
