Women’s experiences with microfinance in urban Bangladesh: Results from a qualitative study

Abstract

In this qualitative study, in-depth interviews with 30 microfinance participants were conducted in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This article explores the experiences of women participating in microfinance through the lens of what we call neoliberal patriarchy. Thematic analyses of the textual data obtained from “rich description” from women indicated that the experience of microfinance was both liberating and burdensome for them. While navigating their ways though microfinance, women also found that men’s domination over women extended beyond the household; for example, they experienced harassment on the streets and at their places of business. Implications for practice are discussed.