Vulnerable Sections

Women street vendors face several key challenges regarding their rights, which can be addressed through targeted legal and social measures to enhance their empowerment.

Key Challenges:

1. Lack of Legal Recognition: Many women street vendors operate informally without legal status, making them vulnerable to harassment and exploitation by authorities and others.
2. Insecurity and Violence: Street vendors often face threats, violence, and extortion from local authorities, criminal elements, and other vendors.
3. Limited Access to Financial Services: Women vendors typically lack access to credit, savings, and insurance services, hindering their ability to expand and secure their businesses.
4. Poor Working Conditions: Inadequate infrastructure, lack of sanitation facilities, and exposure to harsh weather conditions significantly impact their health and productivity.
5. Gender Discrimination: Women street vendors face additional gender-based discrimination and stereotypes, limiting their opportunities and earning potential.

Enhancing Empowerment:

1. Legal Measures: Implementing laws that recognize and protect the rights of street vendors, such as issuing licenses and permits, can provide legal security and reduce harassment. The Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014 in India is an example.
2. Social Security: Establishing social security schemes, including health insurance and pension plans, can improve the socio-economic security of women vendors.
3. Financial Inclusion: Providing access to microcredit, savings accounts, and financial literacy programs can help women vendors invest in their businesses and achieve financial stability.
4. Infrastructure Development: Improving market infrastructure, including safe vending zones, sanitation facilities, and storage spaces, can enhance working conditions and productivity.
5. Capacity Building: Training programs focusing on business skills, legal rights, and gender equality can empower women vendors to advocate for their rights and grow their enterprises.
6. Community Support: Forming associations or cooperatives can provide a collective voice for women vendors, enabling them to negotiate better terms and protect their interests.

By addressing these challenges through comprehensive legal and social measures, women street vendors can achieve greater empowerment and contribute more effectively to the economy.