Economic empowerment of women domestic workers: Role of digital financial services

Abstract

Background: The impact of Digital Financial Services (DFS) on women’s economic empowerment (WEE) has aroused the attention of practitioners and scholars over the past decade. However, its influence on the WEE of women domestic workers has largely been overlooked, particularly in marginalised and vulnerable communities.

Objectives: This study investigated the DFS that women domestic workers use and how they enhance the economic empowerment of women domestic workers.

Method: The study utilised qualitative data from in-depth interviews with women domestic workers (n = 40) in Nigeria. Thematic analysis of qualitative data identified three themes, namely, financial security, privacy and agency, that constitute pathways to women domestic workers’ economic empowerment.

Results: The findings indicate that the availability and user-friendliness of DFS play a significant role in promoting the extracted themes among women domestic workers, thereby enhancing their reputation, relevance in the affairs of the family and overall growth and development. The study indicated that ownership of a mobile phone is a foundational element that drives DFS, which powers WEE.

Conclusion: Policymakers, employers and relevant stakeholders should acknowledge this importance and strive to establish mechanisms that enhance and safeguard the financial rights of domestic workers.

Contribution: This study contributes to the ongoing endeavours of policymakers, governments and researchers in comprehending the expanding realm of women’s empowerment by exploring the potential of DFS as a viable means to empower all women and girls.