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The Legacy of the Catholic Missionary Sisters: Effects on Women's Human Capital in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Author

Listed:
  • Pablo Álvarez-Aragón

    (Development Finance and Public Policies, University of Namur)

  • Jean-Marie Baland

    (Development Finance and Public Policies, University of Namur)

  • Catherine Guirkinger

    (Development Finance and Public Policies, University of Namur)

  • Paola Villar

    (Centre d'Économie de la Sorbonne, Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne)

Abstract

This paper examines the long-term impact of Catholic missionary nuns on women’s human capital in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By using newly digitized historical data on Christian missions, recent demographic surveys, and administrative data on schools and healthcare facilities, we analyze the lasting effects of the missionaries' presence, focusing on gender-specific outcomes. While both Catholic and Protestant missions influenced educational attainment, the presence of Catholic nuns significantly enhanced these effects, especially for girls. Proximity to Catholic missions is also associated with better health outcomes. Beyond education and health, exposure to missions with nuns delays marriage, reduces polygamy, and increases women’s decision-making power within households. However, the negative effects on female labor force participation likely reflect the enduring influence of the “Christian household” model promoted during the colonial period. Overall, Catholic missionary nuns played a decisive role in shaping women’s outcomes, with effects that remain visible more than a century later.

Suggested Citation

  • Pablo Álvarez-Aragón & Jean-Marie Baland & Catherine Guirkinger & Paola Villar, 2026. "The Legacy of the Catholic Missionary Sisters: Effects on Women's Human Capital in the Democratic Republic of the Congo," DeFiPP Working Papers 2601, University of Namur, Development Finance and Public Policies.
    • Handle: RePEc:nam:defipp:2601
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    File URL: https://defipp.unamur.be/wp/defipp_wp_2026_1.pdf
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