In the coastal towns of Chile, a group of women is fighting for recognition, dignity, and survival in an industry that has long overlooked them. These fisherwomen, known as algueras, primarily work in seaweed harvesting and related tasks, contributing significantly to the country’s artisanal fishing sector. Despite their vital role, these women have historically been marginalised, classified as mere assistants, and left without the social and economic support that their male counterparts receive. However, the tide is slowly turning as these women organise, demand their rights, and strive to escape the vulnerability they face.
A Growing Movement for Recognition
In 2023, there were 1,850 registered artisanal fisherpeople’s organisations in Chile, 81 of which were made up entirely of women. This number reflects the growing movement among Chilean fisherwomen to organise and advocate for their rights. These women, totalling 26,438 across the country, engage in a variety of tasks, from seaweed gathering to fish filleting and shellfish shucking. Yet, their contributions have often been invisible to policymakers and the broader society.
The invisibility of these women is a major issue. Marcela Loyola, vice-president of the Agrupación de Mujeres de Mar(Seawomen Group) in Bucalemu, a coastal town in the O'Higgins region, has been vocal about the challenges they face. "The main problem is that we fisherwomen are invisible throughout the country. We have always been in the shadow of our husbands. There is a lack of recognition of women also from the authorities, in society, and in policies," Loyola explains.
The Challenges of Seaweed Harvesting
Seaweed harvesting, primarily conducted by women, is a labor-intensive and seasonal occupation. The harvesting season runs from December to April, after which the women must find other means to support themselves for the rest of the year. The conditions they work under are often harsh, with makeshift shacks serving as their homes during the season. These shacks lack basic amenities like water and electricity, forcing the women to endure extreme conditions to make a living.
The physical demands of the job are considerable. Harvesting cochayuyo (Durvillaea antarctica), a type of edible brown seaweed, requires the women to dive into the sea, often with nothing more than a knife to cut the seaweed stalks from the rocks. This work, which requires significant physical strength, is made even more difficult by the precarious conditions and low pay. The price of seaweed is set by buyers and can be as low as 200 to 500 pesos per kilo (20 to 50 US cents), leaving these women to work long hours for minimal returns.
Organising for Change
Despite these challenges, Chilean fisherwomen are beginning to see some progress. Thanks to the Gender Equity Law passed in 2020, there has been a significant increase in the organisation among women in the fishing sector. This law has opened up opportunities for training and support, allowing women to better advocate for their rights and seek recognition for their contributions.
However, the struggle is far from over. The fisherwomen face ongoing issues with male-dominated unions and a lack of support from local authorities. In some cases, male fishers have encroached on the women’s management areas, disregarding the hard work these women have put into maintaining these resources. This is particularly true in Pichilemu, where the only women-run management area in central Chile faces constant challenges from male divers.
The Future of Chile’s Seawomen
The future of Chile’s fisherwomen depends on continued organization and advocacy. They are fighting not just for their survival but for recognition as equal participants in the country’s vital artisanal fishing sector. As they continue to push for better working conditions, fair pay, and social recognition, these women are setting an example of resilience and strength.
However, they also need broader societal support to ensure their voices are heard. As Chile continues to navigate its role as one of the world’s largest fishing nations, the contributions of its fisherwomen must no longer be ignored. With continued advocacy and the implementation of more inclusive policies, there is hope that these women will finally receive the recognition and support they deserve.