Financial Inclusion and the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities in the Context of SDGs: A Systematic Literature Review

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of 2015 are a worldwide call to end the vicious circle of poverty, protect the earth, and ensure peace universally by the year 2030. As per the principle of “Leaving No One Behind," which mandates the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in building an inclusive and sustainable future. Financial inclusion is essential to reach the SDGs and should extend in the same proportion to PWDs as it does to all. This paper is based on Systematic Literature Review of existing research to evaluate the relationship between financial inclusion and the welfare of PWDs. As per guidance by PRISMA, the study used systematic identification, screening, and examination of literature. The findings indicate that, Inclusion in financial system boosts economic participation, income protection, and social integration among PWDs. Problems like restricted digital channel access, weak regulation, and low level of financial literacy still exist to slow down improvement. For the goal of equal participation in the financial system, focused policy action is necessary. The study provides practical suggestions to improve disability-inclusive financial systems and facilitate overall development objectives.