| Summary: | This study critically assesses how far the Mauritian EPZ, which consists of a
predominantly female workforce, is conducive to women’s empowerment, particularly in
a context of rife global competition. Focus Group Discussions with actual female
workers and semi-directive interviews of those who have been laid off reveal that there
have effectively been some benefits which may be construed as empowerment.
However, low wages and harsh treatment of workers at the workplace, compounded with
rising costs of living and pervasive patriarchal values impede the extent of empowerment.
Yet, when contrasted with the experiences of laid off women, the centrality of
employment becomes more palpable. The experiences of job loss are in many cases
destructive of not only the laid-off worker’s self-image and aspirations, but also on their
ability to juggle with poverty and its associated outcomes. Despite being a relatively
difficult sector to work in, its benefits outweigh its limitations. === Sociology === MA (Social Science)
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