Livelihoods refer to the means or sources of making a living or supporting oneself and one's family. It is the combination of activities, skills, resources, and assets that individuals or communities engage in to generate income and meet their basic needs and social obligations.
A livelihood encompasses various diverse aspects, including but not limited to, formal employment, self-employment, entrepreneurship, agriculture, fishing, livestock rearing, and other income-generating activities. It takes into account not only income generation but also the sustainability, stability, and resilience of individuals or communities in maintaining their economic well-being.
The concept of livelihoods recognizes that people have different assets and capabilities, including natural, human, financial, social, and physical resources, which can be used to earn a living and create economic opportunities. These assets, along with access to markets, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social services, contribute to the overall livelihoods of individuals or communities.
Livelihoods are not limited to monetary gains; they also encompass non-economic aspects such as social relationships, cultural identity, and the overall quality of life. Sustainable livelihoods focus on long-term resilience and the well-being of individuals and communities, aiming to reduce poverty, inequality, and vulnerability to external shocks.
Overall, livelihoods are a comprehensive and multifaceted concept that embodies the ways individuals or communities sustain themselves economically and socially, providing them with the means to lead dignified and fulfilling lives.
