Paper

Microfinance in the ESCWA Region and Proposed Development Strategy

Microfinance: The current scenario and future steps for the region
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This paper aims at developing a strategy for microfinance in the Economic Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) region. It does so by:

  • Looking at the current scenario of microfinance in the region;
  • Providing a background of microfinance (definition, services/products, players, regulation and impact on livelihoods) with a world perspective.

The paper documents the following region specific topics in detail:

  • Different players and regulation in the microfinance industry;
  • Current market scenario;
  • Demand and supply situation;
  • Challenges in the industry.

The paper also explains the rationale behind developing a microfinance strategy for the ESCWA region by developing a context for the poor in the region. According to the paper the purpose for development of the microfinance strategy is to address the following:

  • Creation of a policy environment conducive to microfinance;
  • Development of financial infrastructure;
  • Building of viable institutions;
  • Provision of support for:
    • Pro-poor innovations,
    • Social intermediation.

Finally, the paper develops a strategy to effectively implement microfinance as a tool to curb poverty.

About this Publication

By Shehab, I.
Published