Abstract

National Statistical Offices (NSOs) face the challenge to measure care work, as it involves capturing both the quantity and the quality of the activities performed, as well as their social and economic impacts. Some of the difficulties include defining the boundaries of care work, identifying the relevant units of analysis, collecting data on unpaid and informal care work and valuing care work in monetary terms. Despite these challenges, measuring care work is essential for promote policies for gender equality, social justice, and human development.
In this session, representatives from NSOs and the International Labour Organization (ILO) will share their experiences measuring care work, care activities and carers. This exchange of ideas will enhance good practices in NSOs to improve statistical information on care and caregivers. The session will also explore the challenges that NSOs face when collecting information on care, time allocated to this activity and the consequences for those receiving and providing care. In the session, by presenting different approaches — from time-use to specialized surveys — NSOs will present a diversity of approaches to the measure of this activity.
In this session, not only is the exchange of experiences expected, but also the recognition and introduction of different approaches. Thus, the session will also serve as a meeting point for statistical offices pursuing the measurement of care and care-related activities.