Challenging the links between microfinance and domestic violence: evidence from rural India

The impact of microfinance on domestic violence has been widely discussed, but there is still no consensus due to the fact that context and programme implementation mechanisms have a large effect on outcomes. An innovative grassroots microfinance organisation in India, Rojiroti, has a number of unique features which make a positive impact on domestic violence more likely. Using a quasi-experimental design with panel data and matched control sites, this article reports on a study that found a significant reduction in levels of domestic violence among women members of Rojiroti, alongside a significant increase in asset ownership and knowledge of household finances.