This report explores the historical roots of feminist welfare activism and draws lessons for contemporary policy-making. It highlights the transformative potential of welfare systems designed to promote women’s independence and address structural inequalities.

• Over the last decade, welfare cuts have disproportionately impacted women—especially lone mothers, disabled women, and women from marginalized communities. This report reframes welfare as liberation, not dependency.

• Drawing from the Women’s Liberation Movement (WLM) of the late 20th century, it examines the contrasting perspectives of campaigns like Wages for Housework, which prioritized direct payments, and those advocating for socialized domestic labor and expanded public services.

• The second section explores how welfare systems historically excluded groups like sex workers and argues for inclusive policies that address the needs of criminalized and stigmatized women.

• Drawing parallels between historical feminist activism and current debates, the report reflects on Universal Basic Income (UBI) and Universal Basic Services (UBS) as complementary strategies for women’s independence.