The impact of cooperatives on the economic and social empowerment of women in rural areas of Sri Lanka

The cooperative system in Sri Lanka is a vital component of the country's socio-economic development, particularly in rural areas. Cooperatives operate based on principles of voluntary membership, democratic control, and equitable distribution of benefits. Cooperatives have emerged as a powerful tool for promoting women's economic empowerment and social inclusion in Sri Lanka. Empowerment, from a sociological perspective, is a dynamic process through which individuals and groups gain the ability to challenge and transform social structures, norms, and inequalities that shape their lives. It involves the acquisition of knowledge, resources, and social capital, enabling individuals to exercise agency, make informed choices, and actively participate in decision-making processes. This research examines the impact of cooperatives on the economic and social empowerment of women in rural areas of Sri Lanka. The research was used both qualitative and quantitative method. Data were collected from a sample of randomly chosen 50 women in Rathnapura Estate Housing Cooperative Society using a self-administered questionnaire. The Research reveals that cooperatives have a substantial impact on the economic and social empowerment of women in rural areas of Sri Lanka. Women who are members of cooperatives experience increased income generation opportunities, access to credit, and skill development, leading to greater financial independence. Additionally, participation in cooperatives fosters collective decision-making, social networks, and leadership development among women, challenging traditional gender roles. Cooperatives also contribute to addressing gender-based constraints and advocating for women's rights. These findings underscore the significant role of cooperatives in promoting gender equality and empowering women in rural Sri Lanka.