The sustentation situation for women in Arequipa : A field study on local development in southern Peru

Abstract: The Peruvian society is one of the most unequal in the world and despite the growing economy the centralised political tradition impedes the trickling-down of wealth down to the people who need it the most. In Arequipa in southern Peru an initiative called the Programme for Rural Development (PRD) was commenced in the beginning of 2007 with the purpose of consolidating democracy and promote economic development, foremost for women. The programme was developed by Svalorna together with their cooperation organisations at location in Arequipa. This investigation is both descriptive and explorative with a purpose of both describing the current economic and social situation in these departments as well as in a more normative manner explore the possible ways to go forward and issues that need further attention in regard to the PRD. The investigation has been realised as a qualitative field based study with the aim of emphasising on the views and opinions of the women in the different departments with the purpose of putting the women at a grass root level in focus. Therefore the methodological approach which permeates the entire study is a ‘bottom-up’ implementation analysis. The process of collecting information has implied field studies, where observation, interviews and interaction has been used as techniques, as well as a vast collection of background to the current socioeconomic situation which also has been necessary. Conducting this investigation has lead to many interesting and useful conclusions regarding the contemporary and future sustentation situation for women and youth in the rural parts of Arequipa. This study will emphasise the importance of invisible actions within rural development, such as strengthening the common identity and objectives, considered to be the foundation to organising, both in regard to democratic participation as well as economic activities. In regard to entrepreneurship or the initiation of small scale businesses, components such as involvement from the rest of the family, sharing of skills and experiences within the group, access to capital, follow up and evaluation, are vital. Overall, the inhabitants need to participate in their own development process and receive assistance from a holistic programme that takes in consideration all elements in the life of the women.