Empowering Women in the Digital Economy: A Quest for Meaningful Connectivity and Access in Developing Countries

This book explores the opportunities and best practices necessary for empowering women in the digital economy in developing countries, focusing on connectivity, legislation, social and cultural attitudes, affordability, and working conditions. It provides insights on new strategies, case studies, and lessons to address institutional challenges and support women's empowerment through digital technologies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 158 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into multidisciplinary perspectives on empowering women in the digital economy in developing countries. It explores the critical components of connectivity that hold significant importance for women, providing valuable insights for decision-makers and policymakers to adopt policies that foster their empowerment in leveraging digital platforms and pursuing careers in the digital economy.

To address this pressing issue, we have assembled eight insightful contributions (or chapters) that shed light on new directions, strategies, and barriers to women's empowerment through digital technologies. These contributions span various thematic areas, including female digital entrepreneurship, social media, agricultural value chains, women in the gig economy, the digital divide, gender disparities in cryptocurrencies, and digital access in agriculture.

The central theme of the contributions is that appropriate legislation is crucial, but it is not sufficient on its own. Social and cultural attitudes must be altered, and awareness raised to empower women fully in the digital realm. Affordability is another critical factor, and governments and development agencies can play a pivotal role in addressing this challenge. Initiatives such as offering free or discounted smart devices to rural women and providing relevant digital skills training can significantly enhance their access and utilization of digital platforms.

Furthermore, urgent attention is required by government labor agencies in developing countries to enforce decent working conditions and protect female gig workers while maximizing the opportunities offered by these platforms. Recognizing the potential benefits and challenges of digital technologies, this book offers clarity on new strategies, case studies, and lessons in addressing institutional challenges and promoting inclusive growth in the digital economy.

By supporting women in developing countries with sound policies and programs for responsible and sustainable use of digital platforms, we can empower them to participate fully in the global digital revolution and contribute to the sustainable development of their communities and economies. Let us work together to create a more equitable and inclusive digital future for all.

Weight: 346g
Dimension: 176 x 254 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032298498