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The microcredit continuum: From ‘smart economics’ to holistic programming

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  • Annabel Dulhunty

Abstract

The ability of microcredit programmes to empower women remains highly contested, with studies alternatively championing their worth or denouncing their ineffectiveness. This article examines why there are such differences of opinion as to the value of microcredit programming for women's empowerment. Through using a qualitative analysis of interviews and focus group discussions with self‐help group participants in West Bengal, this article shows that current microcredit programming varies widely. Results from this study show that there were different empowerment outcomes for women based on which approach to microcredit was implemented. Results further indicate that regardless of the model of programming employed, microcredit is no substitution for welfare or for the creation of employment. This article therefore concludes that microcredit programming exists along a continuum, from ‘smart economics’ approaches to more holistic gender focused programming approaches.

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  • Annabel Dulhunty, 2022. "The microcredit continuum: From ‘smart economics’ to holistic programming," Journal of International Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 34(6), pages 1213-1226, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:jintdv:v:34:y:2022:i:6:p:1213-1226
    DOI: 10.1002/jid.3625
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