Women Empowerment and Poverty Reduction through Participation of Women in Micro-finance with Reference to Bangladesh

Abstract

Purpose: This article aims to focus on the women empowerment and poverty reduction through active participation of women in micro-finance in the context of Bangladesh. Design/methodology/approach : The study has been conducted mainly based on secondary data and information that has been collected and analyzed from published books, articles published in different journals, magazines and websites. Moreover, the primary data and information has been gathered through observations of the performance of microfinancing activities of various development organizations in Bangladesh. Findings : The study explores the relationship between micro-finance and women empowerment in Bangladesh. Empowerment helps eradicate the conditions that cause powerlessness. Women's powerlessness and dependencies can be changed by involving them in socio-economic activities, motivating them to participate through action plans and suggestions, and encouraging them to accept responsibilities in their group activities. In Bangladesh, the process of women empowerment and poverty eradication has been initiated since the independence of the country. The social attitude in Bangladesh has also changed in favor of the women involvement in the business, profession and vocation with the help of micro-finance. Research limitations/implications- As earlier stated, the study does not include primary survey with representation of population for generalization. Therefore, further research is needed considering empirical evidences extensively through primary survey in near future. Originality/value: The study attempts to gain insights into the women empowerment through micro-finance that contributes to the growth and development of the country as a whole by reducing poverty