Care economy from a human rights perspective: Dignity of life, structural equity, and state responsibility

Abstract

The interconnection between human rights and the care economy constitutes a central analytical field for understanding contemporary structural inequalities, by conceiving care as a critical lens that shifts the focus from economic production to social reproduction and the sustainability of life. This paper proposes a reflection on the care economy and its interfaces with human rights and public policies, taking as reference three fundamental analytical categories. From a methodological perspective, the research is based on a systematic literature review, and the analysis was guided by the following analytical categories: (1) dignity of life, (2) structural equity, and (3) state responsibility for care. As results, care is recognized as an indispensable condition for the reproduction of social life and for the functioning of economic systems, demonstrating that the historical devaluation and invisibilization of care work stem from hierarchical social structures that unevenly distribute responsibilities, rights, and opportunities. The care economy is thus grounded in the preservation and continuity of life, understood in a broad and integrated manner, encompassing both individuals’ everyday needs and the economic, market-based, environmental, and social arrangements organized around care practices. From this perspective, care goes beyond interpersonal and domestic relations, asserting itself as a structuring element of public policies and productive systems, guiding development models committed to socio-environmental justice, social reproduction, and collective well-being.