Financial inclusion of vulnerable groups
Researchers in our financial inclusion stream focus on two key areas: the financial exclusion of people with disabilities, and the impact of gender-based violence on the financial exclusion of disadvantaged women.
1. Financial exclusion of people with disabilities
Globally, 1.4 billion adults are financially excluded, with people with disabilities disproportionately affected. This limits their ability to build resilience, manage emergencies, and invest in sustainable practices. OTL researchers explore the unique challenges and opportunities in promoting financial inclusion for people with disabilities, including:
- Barriers and facilitators of financial inclusion: This project investigates the challenges and opportunities affecting financial inclusion for individuals with disabilities. Using a systematic literature review, focus group discussions, surveys, and interviews in Bangladesh, Fiji, and Malaysia, the team identifies key obstacles and supportive factors. The findings aim to inform policy recommendations for financial service providers and regulators, making financial systems more inclusive and accessible.
- Behaviour change communication for financial service providers: Collaborating with commercial banks and microfinance organizations in Bangladesh and Malaysia, this project develops behavior change communication modules. These modules aim to change attitudes, norms, and behaviors of bank staff towards individuals with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive banking environment by challenging stereotypes.
- Addressing exclusion in financial and banking applications: In partnership with the Humanise Lab at the Faculty of Information Technology, this project examines how financial applications may exclude people with disabilities. The research aims to identify and address barriers within digital platforms to make them more inclusive and accessible.
- Building financial resilience for people with disabilities amid climate shocks: Focused on Fiji, this project seeks to strengthen the financial resilience of people with disabilities to cope with climate impacts. By improving financial inclusion, knowledge, and access to eco-friendly jobs, the project aims to help them manage climate-related disruptions. The team works with government bodies and financial institutions to co-design financial products, literacy programs, and sustainable investments, reducing economic vulnerability and enhancing their ability to handle climate challenges.
2. Gender-based violence and financial exclusion of disadvantaged women
Gender-based violence affects one-third of women globally and is a significant public health issue. This research stream examines the connection between gender-based violence and the financial exclusion of low-income women, particularly in patriarchal societies. It explores how exposure to violence restricts women’s access to financial resources and services, deepening their economic marginalization. The project seeks to highlight this intersection and offer insights for interventions that empower women financially in these challenging contexts.