NGO-promoted microcredit programs and women's empowerment in rural Bangladesh: quantitative and qualitative evidence.

摘要: Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in rural Bangladesh are reaching out to poor women with collateral-free credit programs aimed at both alleviating poverty and increasing womens status. The present study investigated the hypothesis that participation credit-related activities by NGO members leads greater empowerment of compared nonmembers. sample was comprised 1164 loanees 1200 nonloanees from five areas non-program no significant presence. had significantly higher scores on all three indices female empowerment: inter-spouse consultation autonomy authority. Moreover nonmembers within program authority than comparison areas. Even after background variables were controlled multivariate analysis membership residence an area remained positively associated indices. Other exerted a positive effect concrete or corrugated buildings outside southern eastern regions nonagricultural occupation respondents education age. In focus group discussions reported made them more confident assertive intelligent self-reliant aware their rights. target likely produce substantial improvements social economic status without long delays employment opportunities formal sector.