Determinants of women empowerment in south Asian countries: A conceptual framework

Issue: Although gender inequality is a major issue throughout the world, women in developing countries suffer discrimination to a much severe extent than their counterparts in the developed world. While significant economic and political advances have been made in developing countries in recent decades, women empowerment still remains a challenge. The purpose of this study is to examine the determinants of women empowerment with a particular reference to South Asian countries. Description: This study is based on a review of extant literature that examines current factors effecting women empowerment and their participation in South Asian countries. Lessons learned: The key determinants of women empowerment were identified to include education, workforce participation, control over income and asset, freedom of mobility, political awareness, personal health, and decision making. We also find that these determinants are interrelated, and together contribute towards women's self-efficacy. Although each of these determinants play a role in affecting women's participation in society, the impact of each factor may vary depending on the socio-economic and cultural context of a particular society. Recommendations: The determinants of women empowerment that were identified are critical and must be addressed together to raise women's self-efficacy. Using these determinants, we propose a conceptual framework of women empowerment to provide a platform for the empirical analysis of relationships. We hope that this framework would generate scholarly debate and also guide policy makers and other stakeholders involved in women empowerment to improve the status of women, particularly in the developing world.