New dimensions of income distribution inequality in agrifood systems: a gender perspective

Issue № 3, 2026, article № 16, pages 142-151

Language: Russian

Original language title: НОВЫЕ ГРАНИ НЕРАВНОМЕРНОСТИ РАСПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ ДОХОДОВ В АГРОПРОДОВОЛЬСТВЕННЫХ СИСТЕМАХ: ГЕНДЕРНЫЙ АСПЕКТ

Keywords: AGRIFOOD SYSTEMS, TRANSFORMATION OF AGRIFOOD SYSTEMS, INCOME DISTRIBUTION DISPARITIES, GENDER INEQUALITY

Abstract: This paper examines the features of the transformation of global agrifood systems (AFS). These features include the active development of the high-tech sector alongside the persistence of the traditional sector; glocalization; vulnerability to climate, geopolitical, and other shocks; increased state intervention in the functioning of AFS; and the modification of income distribution disparities among AFS participants, including between women and men. It is shown that global challenges related to low levels of food security persist, indicating insufficient efficiency of AFS. The impact of AFS transformation on the income distribution among its participants is considered from a gender perspective. It is substantiated that the transformation of global AFS perpetuates income disparities between women and men, driven by the digital divide, differing levels of access to material, informational, and financial resources, the disproportionately high impact of climate change and disasters on women's incomes, and the persistently high share of unpaid labor performed by women, among other factors. Specific features of income disparity between women and men in the Russian AFS are identified. These include lower wages in this sector compared to the economy as a whole and a relatively smaller gender income gap compared to other economic sectors, albeit one that aligns with global averages; as well as a lower concentration of Russian women in the informal economy compared to global averages. The paper justifies the need to revise economic and social policy tools at both global and national levels to overcome structural barriers, formalize employment, improve women's working conditions in AFS, and provide them with targeted support.

Authors: Kazantseva Elena Gennadevna