Purdah, Microfinance, and Women’s Mobility in Bangladesh: A Qualitative Study

by Kanig Fatema Akter Bristi, Tunvir Ahamed Shohel, Taufiq-E-Ahmed Shovo, Maherun Nahar Mumu, Hamalna Nizam Purpose of this paper This study aimed to investigate the impact of Purdah , a cultural norm, on the economic independence of women who have received microfinance in Bangladesh. The study also sought to understand whether the Purdah norm has an influence on microfinance loans, such as use, control, and repayment, relevant to female borrowers’ mobility practice.

Perception, cultural value, and Purdah’s implications for everyday life were also considered. Design/methodology/approach We selected women’s groups in development programs, such as microfinance, as the case for this study.

By using a snowball sampling technique, we identified 25 microfinance recipients for interview– mostly women and their spouses living in the Dumuria and Tala Upazilas in the Khulna division of Bangladesh. The research employed thematic analysis to draw conclusions and explain the findings.

Findings The study findings show that traditional norms associated with Purdah hinder women’s economic engagement and that the practice of Purdah among women is institutionalized from a very young age, primarily before marriage.