Determinants of empowerment of rural women in Bangladesh

Empowerment of rural women in developing countries can reduce gender inequality and improve their social status. This paper sought to identify the determinants of empowerment of rural women in Bangladesh. The data for our study were collected from 75 rural women employed in home-based poultry rearing projects in Bangladesh. We conducted factor analysis to identify the determinants of empowerment of rural women. Multiple regression analysis indicated that independent decision making authority and increased involvement in family affairs were significantly associated with the empowerment of rural women. The implications of the findings of this study for improving the quality of life of rural women in Bangladesh are discussed.