Gender, social exclusion, and recognition: the experience of women in homeless situations in the Azores

Authors

  • Joana Paiva Dias Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas, Universidade dos Açores
  • Daniela Soares Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas, Universidade dos Açores, e Centro Interdisciplinar de Ciências Sociais (CICS.NOVA.UAc), Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Açores, Portugal
  • Pilar Damião de Medeiros Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas, Universidade dos Açores, e Centro Interdisciplinar de Ciências Sociais (CICS.NOVA.UAc), Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Açores, Portugal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7458/SPP202510938415

Keywords:

woman, homelessness, gender, recognition

Abstract

This article analyzes the situation of women experiencing homelessness on the island of São Miguel, in the Autonomous Region of Azores, based on an exploratory study. A qualitative approach was adopted, using semi-structured interviews with nine women hosted by a local NGO. Drawing on the recognition theories of Axel Honneth and Nancy Fraser, the study identifies job insecurity, lack of housing and support networks, and gender inequalities as structural factors of exclusion. The findings reveal an accumulation of multiple vulnerabilities, underscoring the need for public policies that integrate redistribution and recognition to promote social justice.

Author Biographies

Daniela Soares, Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas, Universidade dos Açores, e Centro Interdisciplinar de Ciências Sociais (CICS.NOVA.UAc), Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Açores, Portugal

 

 

 

 

Pilar Damião de Medeiros, Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas, Universidade dos Açores, e Centro Interdisciplinar de Ciências Sociais (CICS.NOVA.UAc), Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Açores, Portugal

 

 

 

 

 

Published

2025-11-12