Female perspectives on poverty and urban life : a case study from the San Lazzru area of Cospicua

Abstract

Policy formulation often tends to be based on aggregation of social groups and on statistical simplification. However, there are marked differences between distinct sectors of society which are often overlooked. The voices of specific groups are often not adequately heard. In some social contexts, women constitute one such group. The aim of this study is to present female perspectives on urban life within the San Lazzru district of Cospicua, in the Cottonera region of Malta. This region is often, justly or unjustly, associated with a lower quality of life and with the presence of the phenomenon of poverty. However, poverty is an ambiguous concept, which is not easily defined, and understandings of what constitutes poverty may likewise vary. This research thus has the objective of giving women the opportunity to narrate their own personal perceptions relating to their daily life and ideals, thus allowing an evaluation of comparability between general preconceptions and the view of this particular group of locals. The conclusions of the study indicate the dangers of generalisations, as even within the relatively small group of women interviewed, distinctly different views were noted. A strong element of place attachment was evident, although a sharp distinction was also observed between women who were born in Cospicua, and women who, though now resident in the area, were born elsewhere. A strong focus on extended family ties and concepts of honour and shame, were also apparent. These appear to have a bearing on women's participation in formal employment, which is very limited. Although there was general agreement on the low material quality of life in the area, particularly due to severe problems with the quality of the housing stock and due to the general low income of residents in the area, positive traits were also noted. The research demonstrates that, although preconceptions of the area tend to have a factual basis, they also generally overlook this potential inherent in the specific characteristics of the area and of its residents' way of life. The most evident encouraging resource is that of social capital, as there are strong informal community support networks that appear to be of vital importance to many women in the area, although it was noted that inclusion in such networks appears to be subject to specific criteria. The strong sense of place and cultural pride also hold potential for improvements in the area. In general, however, perceptions of the future tend to be somewhat negative, with many women appearing to consider hope for change to be futile, in particular due to a history of political neglect. However, it is argued that given adequate empowerment and institutional support, women could potentially play a fundamental role in the revitalisation of the area and in improving their own quality of life.