Acceso, control de recursos y autonomía. Un Estudio en mujeres vendedoras del Mercado 10 de agosto, Cuenca en el periodo septiembre 2024 - enero 2025

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the relationship between access to and control of resources and the economic autonomy of informal women vendors at the 10 de agosto Market in Cuenca, Ecuador, during the period September 2024 - January 2025. The aim is to understand how these factors influence their ability to make economic and personal decisions within a context of informal work and complex socioeconomic dynamics. The research adopted a mixed approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods to delve into the individual and collective experiences of the participants. Information was collected through surveys and interviews, addressing key categories such as money management, savings, personal decisions, family support, use of earnings, dependency relationship and access to basic services. The results of the study revealed a diversity of experiences, from women with high levels of autonomy and control over their resources to those facing economic limitations and dependency. Factors such as family support, access to economic opportunities and financial education emerged as determinants for achieving greater autonomy. In addition, the structural barriers faced by these women were highlighted, including job insecurity and gender inequalities. This work contributes to the understanding of the informal economy from a gender perspective, highlighting the opportunities and challenges faced by women in their search for economic autonomy and social justice.