Women's empowerment through sustainable micro-finance: Rethinking 'best practice'

Micro-finance programmes not only give women and men access to savings and credit, but reach millions of people worldwide bringing them together regularly in organised groups. Although no 'magic bullet', they are potentially a very significant contribution to gender equality and women's empowerment, as well as pro-poor development and civil society strengthening. Through their contribution to women's ability to earn an income these programmes have potential to initiate a series of 'virtuous spirals' of economic empowerment, increased well-being for women and their families and wider social and political empowerment. Microfinance 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.