Rural women and social participation: analyzing women's associations in the province of Granada (Spain)

Women's associations have developed significantly in rural Andaluca. Here we analyze their scope and characteristics in the province of Granada, we examine their objectives and activities, as well as the profiles and motivations of their partners. The research is based on a survey administered to representatives of these associations along with focus groups. These partnerships constitute a consolidated local actor, a guide able to channel diverse interests and collective actions, which operates as participation hubs and that promotes empowerment of rural women. They also constitute an important source of welfare, mutual support and social capital that compensates the scarce resources of the population involved. However, financial and structural barriers as well as problems getting used to the new technologies limit their operation.