Speaking Out

This volume draws together the experiences of seven South Asian NGOs in organizing rural and urban poor women for economic empowerment. Going beyond the normal descriptive accounts of the work of these NGOs, it throws new light on how changes are occurring at the grassroots level, and analyses and defines economic empowerment from the perspective of the women themselves. Through seven detailed case studies, the book demonstrates how women are gaining increased access to, and control over, economic resources, and how this in turn has led to far-reaching socio-cultural and political changes at the individual, family, community and wider economy levels. It also shows how women are now building and taking control of their own organizations which are becoming more autonomous and financially self-reliant. This book will be of relevance to students of development and women's studies, development planners and practitioners, and women's organizations, as well as those with an interest in South Asia.