Women’s Economic Empowerment: A Smart Investment

Women’s economic empowerment has become a buzzword in global development, with supposed benefits ranging from reduced poverty and inequality to more inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Yet the meaning of the phrase is often used as shorthand for increased earnings and economic status. But economic empowerment is much more than this: it is a concept that seeks greater access to economic resources and institutions but also fosters increased agency and decision-making over these resources and institutions.

In this document, ICRW explores how the U.S. government can make effective investments in women’s economic empowerment through U.S. foreign assistance and policy.