Entrepreneurship and Microfinance: Economic Development and Women's Empowerment in Kyrgyzstan
Datum
2010-06
Autor:innen
Zeitschriftentitel
ISSN der Zeitschrift
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Verlag
University of Oregon
Zusammenfassung
This thesis focuses on microfinance in Kyrgyzstan as a response to the initiation
of economic, social and political reforms following Kyrgyzstan's independence in 1991.
These reforms accelerated Kyrgyzstan's transition from a centrally-planned to a liberal
market-based economy. Microfinance became a favored mechanism for encouraging
individual entrepreneurship and thus economic development. Based on field research I
conducted in Kyrgyzstan during the summer of 2009, this thesis examines the economic
impact of these reforms on women entrepreneurs, as women were particularly vulnerable
to the social fallout from such reforms. Through participatory observation, small focus
groups and semi-structured interviews, I analyze myriad aspects of the lives of women
entrepreneurs who have participated in a microfinance project. I argue that microfinance
provides an empowering, sustainable path for them. However, the historical occupational
divisions encouraged by the Soviet Union affect how people use microcredit. I conclude
with suggestions on improving microfinance practices in Kyrgyzstan.
Beschreibung
xi, 105 p. : ill., maps. A print copy of this thesis is available through the UO Libraries. Search the library catalog for the location and call number.
Schlagwörter
Businesswomen -- Kyrgyzstan, Women entrepreneurs, Kyrgyzstan -- Economic conditions -- 21st century, Microfinance -- Kyrgyzstan