Social Security Policy Support (SSPS) Programme

An initiative of the Cabinet Division and the General Economics Division (GED), Bangladesh Planning Commission, Government of Bangladesh
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SWAPNO Women: Gender Equality Framework Analysis

Arju Afrin Kathy, Research Officer, Social Security Policy Support (SSPS) Programme, UNDP

This report presents qualitative findings from a field visit by the Social Security Policy Support (SSPS) Programme team to the SWAPNO project areas in Pirganj and Pirgacha unions, Rangpur. Through consultative dialogues with approximately 25 current and former women beneficiaries, guided by a semi-structured questionnaire and informed by the capability approach, the study examines the programme’s impact on enhancing women’s agency, confidence, and financial decision-making across domestic, market, and community spheres. The findings reveal significant transformative effects, including independent income generation, improved educational outcomes for children, effective credit management, resistance to early marriage, and aspirations for political leadership. These outcomes underscore the role of well-designed social protection initiatives in fostering dignity, inclusion, and expanded capabilities for women in traditionally constrained settings.

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