Gender Roles in the Economic Sphere and Women’s Empowerment: Case Studies of the Akha Ethnic Group in Pao Pom-Dong Yang Village, Na Phun Subdistrict, Wang Chin District, Phrae Province

Abstract

This research article investigates the roles of Akha women and their gender negotiation in the economic sphere, which leads to women’s empowerment, in Paopom-Dongyang Village, Naphun Subdistrict, Wangchin District, Prae Province. It used a qualitative approach, including in-depth and focus group interviews with seven Akha women and three Akha men. Research findings show that Akha women in this village play an important role in the local economy, particularly in the maize and cassava markets. It used a qualitative research approach, including in-depth and focus group interviews with seven Akha women and three Akha men. Research findings show that Akha women in this village play a highly important role in the economic sphere, from commercial agriculture of maize and cassava production. Despite an unclear division of labor by sex, Akha women play an indispensable role in agriculture by sharing tasks with men, even though they take fewer manual labor jobs. Furthermore, some women have taken on off-farm wage jobs, which are considered crucial sources of additional income amid uncertain agricultural prices and rising investment costs. Some entered Akha-style souvenir making, which is part of the state’s promotion of ethnic traditions and cultural tourism. Akha women’s roles in the economic sphere have led to their growing significance within households. They are able to negotiate gender roles in various aspects, even while maintaining key household chores and responsibilities as wives and mothers. Yet, Akha women have gained increasing acceptance in society and greater gender equality in being responsible for making decision in household affairs. Akha women have made strategic choices in their meaningful, living and created values at the individual level, which has led to social transformation.