Questioning empowerment

by Jo Rowlands

"Empowerment" is a popular buzz-word used by many diverse development organizations - but what does it really mean? Jo Rowlands examines the various meanings given to the concept of empowerment, and the many ways in which power can be expressed, in personal relationships and in wider social interactions. The book examines two development projects in Honduras which were both concerned mainly with women, comparing their different approaches, and assessing the extent to which the women involved were empowered as a result of their experiences. empowerment is possible for women without major changes in social attitudes.