FACTORS INFLUENCING EMPOWERMENT OF RURAL WOMEN THROUGH INCOME GENERATING ACTIVITIES IN SYLHET DISTRICT, BANGLADESH: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW AND KEY INDICATORS FOR FUTURE RESEARCH

Abstract The need to empower weak and vulnerable social groups, such as women, to eradicate poverty is now considered essential for community development. This is evident by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development adopted by the United Nations (UN) member states in 2015, popularly known as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) (UN, 2015). The SDGs are seventeen (17) global goals serving as urgent calls to action for all countries. The goals recognize the need for empowering women and all its ramifications (Goal No. 5). Involving in different income generating activities may have an influence on empowerment among women and in reduction of poverty. The purpose of this study is to synthesize the evidence from the last decade in order to improve our understanding of women empowerment. Women empowerment is a critical issue in today's world, as it aims to increase women's economical, psychological, social and political power. This study makes significant contributions. First, a literature review overview of the concept of women's empowerment, its historical evolution, and its importance in achieving sustainable development goals. The review highlights the various factors that hinder women's empowerment and identifies successful strategies for empowering women. Finally, the review concludes with recommendations for policymakers, civil society organizations, and researchers to advance the cause of women empowerment.