Integrating Gender Relations into Social Policy: An Analysis of Challenges and Approaches

Abstract

This research analyzes the integration of gender relations into social policy, focusing on the challenges and approaches within various social protection systems. It begins by examining the heightened interest in social policy over the past decade, highlighting its role in mitigating the adverse effects of economic reforms and alleviating poverty. The study explores the preference for “social policy” over "welfare state" in gender research, particularly in Kazakhstani practice. Key areas of analysis include labor markets, institutional bases of social and gender policy, and the nature of political debates in the field. Critiques of traditional frameworks that overlook non-market labor are addressed, emphasizing the need for gender-inclusive policies that promote equitable responsibility distribution between men and women. "Defamiliarization" is explored as an emerging trend advocating for state-provided services to promote women's economic independence and reduce their reliance on familial support. The research evaluates childcare, elder care, and parental leave policies through case studies and comparative analysis of Kazakhstan and other countries. The findings underscore the importance of integrating a gender perspective into social policy to ensure comprehensive support for all forms of labor, both market and non-market. Policy recommendations are provided to enhance gender inclusivity, aiming to create more effective and equitable social protection systems that support all individuals' well-being and economic independence, particularly women.