Does women's economic empowerment promote human development in low- and middle-income countries? A meta-analysis

Abstract

Reducing gender inequality in economic opportunities is considered valuable in its own right and a critical element in ending poverty and boosting economic prosperity. Does the evidence from multiple interventions support this view? This paper investigates the impact of women's economic empowerment (WEE) on human development in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). This meta-analysis focuses on interventions that increase income generation opportunities for women by supporting agricultural and entrepreneurial activities, expanding financial access, and promoting female labour force participation. The evidence from experimental and quasi-experimental studies indicates that WEE significantly impacts human development. However, the impacts are relatively modest. Our findings suggest that changing social norms is critical to promote SDGs effectively.