Role of Micro Finance in Reduction of Domestic Violence against Women and Enhancement of Women Entrepreneurship: An Economic Analysis

Abstract

Violence is a reflection of power inequalities in society and comparably more women then men continue to be targets. The impact of micro finance on the women in terms of reduction of domestic violence has been examined in the study. The study revealed that Micro finance institutions very strongly felt that, with the use of micro-finance, there can be a reduction in domestic violence. 80% of these institutions feel that micro-finance can lead to reduction in domestic violence. It has also been seen that, in many cases, micro-finance has contributed to changes in attitude about women’s contribution to and role in economic and social development. Specifically, micro-finance has resulted in increased recognition of women’s productive role and enhancement of women entrepreneurship. It has also been observed that, women in particular face significant barriers to achieving sustained increases in income and improving their status, and require complementary support in other areas, such as training, marketing, literacy, social mobilization, and other financial services (e.g., consumption loans, savings).