Gender inequalities in inclusive innovation of rainbow trout production, Estado de México.

Abstract

This article is a reflection from the stance of feminist economics of rupture on the implications of the inclusive innovation approach and on gender relationships inside rainbow trout production units (Oncorhynchus mykiss) (RTPUs) in Estado de México. It is centered on the masculine institutionalized view of producers on women’s work. The contradictions of inclusive innovation in gender inequality fields which affect women directly are analyzed from this point of view. Through semi-structured interviews carried out with producers, institutional public workers and academics, and direct observation, the following questions were answered: How do men construct the social value of women’s work in the RTPUs? What is the participation of women in technical-practical processes to develop innovations? With the interiorized heteronormativity in technical learning processes and in economic-productive decision making, women lose relevance as creative protagonists of the innovation that could translate into improving the efficiency of RTPUs. The patriarchal ideology dominating gender relations in production aquaculture activities makes the role of women into a subordinate heteronormative category which excludes them from innovation projects. The conclusion presents the need to have a new approach of feminist inclusive innovation by placing sustainable living as the focus.