The burden of rapid socio-economic transformation: case study of women’s economic empowerment in post-conflict Rwanda

  • Pascal Niyonkuru

    Student thesis: Master's ThesisMaster of Science by Research

    Abstract

    This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the gender reforms in post-conflict Rwanda by examining how gender barriers have limited many Rwandan women’s abilities from benefiting from the country’s economic opportunities. The study is an attempt to provide analysis of the social and economic challenges despite huge political support for gender equality. Drawing on comparative theoretical perspectives and primary information from quantitative data and qualitative research acquired from fieldwork, this project argues that for the time being, women are facing hardships due to the recent governmental gender reforms. Relationship between men and women remains defined by traditional behaviours, whereas the current constitution is unequivocal on gender equality. Legislative reforms towards gender equality present enormous gaps because they do not take into account cultural constraints, which amplify many discriminatory customary practices, hindering women’s economic empowerment and worsening gender-based violence and domestic violence. The implementation of such reforms encounters patriarchal norms which encourage resistance of many groups believing they are defending their inherited rights.
    Date of Award2015
    Original languageEnglish
    Awarding Institution
    • Coventry University
    SupervisorMarion MacLellan (Supervisor)

    Keywords

    • Gender
    • Economic empowerment
    • Development
    • Rwanda
    • Reforms

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