Women Informal Workers in Commercial Poultry Farms: A Review of Occupational, Social and Economic Challenges

Currently, commercial poultry farming is advancing, with women constituting a substantial but often neglected portion of the workforce, mostly in informal roles that receive little recognition or protection. This review investigates the evolution of women’s participation in this sector, tracing its historical roots, the advancement of commercial poultry operations, and the varying contexts of women's participation across several regions. It underscores the informal nature of their employment, characterised by limited legal protection, insecure contracts and low wages. It reviews the occupational safety & health risks that are faced by women, including risky working environments & exposure to disease, as well as the social issues they encounter, like household decisions, limited say in the workplace and restricted mobility. Economic difficulties, such as the absence of social security and irregular earnings, are also discussed, along with weaknesses in current policy frameworks and labour rights. The review concludes by considering how social work interventions can highlight these concerns and suggests future research directions in this context.