Policy Brief

For millions of women, a digital identification (ID) is more than just proof of identity—it’s the key to unlocking financial independence, healthcare, education, and economic opportunity. Yet, too many women—especially in low- and lower-middle-income countries—still face barriers to obtaining one. Discriminatory laws, socio-cultural norms, and economic challenges keep them excluded,

Financial products and services are crucial for empowering women financially, yet rapid innovation and digitalization pose risks, especially for those with low digital financial capability. Women often receive lower quality services or none at all due to societal norms. Vulnerable populations, particularly low-income women and rural communities, face amplified risks

The World Bank Global Findex Database 2021 reports a gender gap of 6% in account ownership across developing economies. While it is encouraging to see the gender gap fall from 9% over the last ten years, women still constitute a significant proportion of the unbanked population in low and lower