Fémmunka

Fémmunka is a Slovak term that translates to "woman's work" or "female labor." Historically, it referred to the traditional roles and tasks assigned to women within a household and community. These often included childcare, domestic chores such as cooking, cleaning, and sewing, as well as agricultural work like tending gardens, harvesting, and caring for livestock. In some contexts, fémmunka also encompassed crafts and textile production that could be sold or bartered.

The concept of fémmunka is closely tied to societal expectations and gender roles that were prevalent in rural and traditional Slovak communities. While these tasks were essential for the functioning of a family and economy, they were often unpaid and undervalued compared to the labor performed by men. The burden of fémmunka frequently meant women had long working hours, balancing domestic responsibilities with other productive activities.

In contemporary Slovakia, the direct application of the traditional understanding of fémmunka has diminished due to modernization, changing economic structures, and evolving gender roles. However, the term can still be used in discussions about the division of labor within households, the challenges women face in balancing work and family life, and the ongoing societal recognition and valuation of domestic and care work. It remains a relevant term for understanding historical social structures and contemporary discussions on gender equality in Slovakia.