Employment and employment policy of the public sector in rural areas: Experiences of women and men on the southern side of the Westfjords

Abstract

The article addresses employment and employment policies in rural areas. We explore men and women’s employment opportunities in rural areas, and whether it has gendered consequences. During the last decades policy making in rural areas has been characterized by attempts to respond to reductions in agricultural production and reduced fishing. Long term policy has been lacking and short term measures have been pursued without sufficient preparation and concern for long term effects. The article discusses the experience of men and women’s employment opportunities in the South Westfjords, which turned out to be a painful experience. There is scepticism towards public governance, men have bitter experiences of grandiose plans and activities encouraged by the government whereas women consider themselves discriminated against regarding support and financing. Although gender equality has been a part of public policy for a long period these measures have not taken gender into account. It is important that employment policy and rural policy is well informed and receptive to gender perspectives.