IFFD Paper 62. Apt to be overlooked

Unpaid work is apt to be overlooked in economic valuations but holds great worth for individuals and society and can be a source of joy and fulfillment for many. Within the household and community, activities of this nature include various services related to the care of oneself and others. Some of this work is related to the everyday functioning of all households cleaning, cooking and fetching water and firewood. But a substantial portion relates to the care of others  about 2 billion children for example. Many adults may also need to be looked after to some degree older people (people over age 80 now number around 120 million), those living with disabilities (estimated at about a billion) and the sick (for example, many of the 37 million living with HIV/AIDS).

Download Paper 62