Abstract:
1. Introduction
Sri Lanka ranks 75th out of 132 countries on the global gender inequality
index, highlighting the need to create opportunities for women and gender
minorities to exercise their rights and contribute to national development.
However, there is a significant gender disparity in financial inclusion, with
men having greater access to formal finance. This research aims to identify
the demographic and socioeconomic factors influencing women's
empowerment, as well as the moderating role of financial inclusion,
focusing on the Nuwara Eliya district.
2. Research Methodology
This quantitative study surveyed 384 married women aged 25 to 45 in the
Nuwara Eliya district. Demographic variables included family size, family
type, age difference with the husband, number of children, and residence,
while socioeconomic variables covered women's education, employment
status, income level, wealth index, and their husband's education and
employment status. The hypotheses were tested using chi-square analysis
and multiple linear regression.
3. Findings and Discussion
The findings revealed that the age difference between the husband and
place of residence significantly influences women's empowerment. Most
socioeconomic factors, except women's employment status and financial
inclusion, positively contribute to women's empowerment, with financial
inclusion also playing a moderate role.
4. Conclusion and Implications
This study underscores the critical role of demographic and socioeconomic
factors, alongside financial inclusion, in shaping women's empowerment in
the Nuwara Eliya district. The government can use the study's findings to
implement women empowerment programs, promoting greater female
involvement in national development. Financial institutions can apply the
insights to address women's specific financial needs, developing strategies
to enhance women's access to microfinance, banking services, etc.
