Challenging the links between microfinance and domestic violence: evidence from rural India

The impact of microfinance on domestic violence has been widely
discussed, but there is still no consensus due to the fact that context
and programme implementation mechanisms have a large effect on
outcomes. An innovative grassroots microfinance organisation in India,
Rojiroti, has a number of unique features which make a positive impact
on domestic violence more likely. Using a quasi-experimental design
with panel data and matched control sites, this article reports on a study
that found a significant reduction in levels of domestic violence among
women members of Rojiroti, alongside a significant increase in asset
ownership and knowledge of household finances