Abstract
We study the impact of a multifaceted program for ultra-poor women in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. We cross-randomized the primary treatment – a holistic set of services and financial support – with a 16-week men’s engagement program (MEP) for spouses and male household members. The core treatment has large effects on consumption, employment and finances, women’s empowerment, and health, with most effects still significant two years after the program start. We find heterogeneous effects on intimate partner violence, which decreased for women at high risk of violence but increased for women at low risk. The MEP yields no lasting additional impacts for women. Multifaceted programs targeting women can be an effective way to lift people out of poverty and increase women’s empowerment, although care is needed to minimize backlash.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call