Mainstreaming gender in micro-finance service provision: synthesis paper

Micro-finance programmes reach millions of people worldwide, not only giving women and men access to savings and credit, but bringing them together regularly in organised groups. Through their contribution to women’s ability to earn an income, micro-finance programmes can potentially initiate a series of ‘virtuous spirals’ of economic empowerment, increased well-being for women and their families and wider social and political empowerment. Micro finance services and groups involving men also have potential to question and significantly change men's attitudes and behaviours as an essential component of achieving gender equality. Gender equality and women’s empowerment in turn are essential and integral components of any pro-poor development and civil society strengthening strategy.