Women's Economic Empowerment as Poverty Reduction Strategy: Opportunities and Structural Constraints
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Abstract
This study examines how women's economic empowerment contributes to poverty reduction through analysis of opportunities and structural constraints affecting women's economic participation. A qualitative literature review approach was employed to synthesize findings from various scholarly sources addressing employment, credit access, asset ownership, and cultural barriers. The analysis reveals that women's economic empowerment has multiplier effects on family welfare through increased investment in children's education and health. Access to credit, productive assets, and decent employment opportunities are key factors determining success. Structural barriers including discriminatory laws, unequal care responsibilities, cultural norms restricting mobility, and limited access to reproductive health services remain significant obstacles requiring comprehensive policy interventions. Digital technology and innovation offer new possibilities to overcome traditional barriers, though gender gaps in access and digital literacy persist. Integrated approaches addressing multiple dimensions simultaneously prove more effective than fragmented programs. Collaboration between government, private sector, civil society, and international institutions is essential for creating sustainable ecosystems supporting women's economic empowerment. Legal reforms ensuring equal property rights and eliminating discrimination in financial access represent critical policy priorities.
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