Paths to women’s financial autonomy include more opportunities, says expert

International Women’s Day

Women’s independence allows them to be the owners of their lives, their material goods and their own livelihood

In 2024, it will be 90 years since women gained labor rights, thus being able to perform other functions in addition to domestic activities. This change was only possible with the 1934 Constitution, which also prohibited work in unhealthy environments and guaranteed medical and sanitary assistance to pregnant women. However, many things still did not work in practice, and it is only in the last few decades that they have gained greater autonomy in the face of everyday challenges.

Today the scenario is different and contemporary women can have more independence, as the range of professional opportunities available is much wider, despite some difficulties persisting.

According to personal finance specialist, João Victorino, the greater presence of women in the job market allows them to have more livelihood alternatives, directly impacting their quality of life and the way in which emotional ties are maintained, increasingly less conditioned by aspects purely financial.

“Currently, women are increasingly aware of their personal finances and even investments, which means they have complete autonomy over what they want to do with their own money”,

highlights.

Women’s independence allows them to be masters of their lives, their material goods and their own livelihood. Data from a survey by Provu, a fintech for personal credit and payment methods, shows that 71% of women who use the platform are the main source of income in their homes. Furthermore, research from Accord Certo, a debt negotiation company, states that when it comes to personal finances, women tend to be more assertive and careful with money, despite earning less.

Recently, an emblematic case at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York received worldwide attention. Ruth Gottesman, a former professor at the institution, made a historic donation of US$1 billion to promote free tuition, benefiting all students on the course, where 59% are women. This is the largest single donation ever made to this college. “Her generosity should serve as an example not only for women, but for everyone who wants a more just world. The donation is expected to ease the financial burden on recent graduates and make medical education more accessible to those previously excluded.”

On the other hand, despite the advances that are currently taking place, João points out that inequality of opportunities and, as a consequence, the significant difference in salaries (mainly in leadership positions), continues to be a persistent problem in the labor market, with men historically receiving more than women, even occupying similar positions.

Given this scenario, promoting equal opportunities is fundamental.

“Many women give up seeking promotions in companies to balance family responsibilities, facing ‘double shifts’. That is why equal pay, recognition (and fair division) of the responsibility for comprehensive family care, and respect are primary demands of women in companies and in life”,

concludes John.

*With information from consultancy

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