Published in Mondes en développement 2022/3-4 (n° 199-200), p. 419-434
What has been learned over the last fifty years about microfinance shows that being too simplistic can be unconvincing. Financial inclusion policies and practices have a role to play in order to help poor households facing the challenges of daily life. Microfinance is also seen as way to empower women, and to support the development of rural and agricultural communities. Is the impact of microfinance really over-stated? Which role microfinance and financial inclusion have to play in development?
This conversation tries to pinpoint the key issues to keep in mind. Jonathan Morduch (Professor at NYU, ULB Doctor Honoris Causa), one of the most respected academics in the field of microfinance and financial inclusion, is interviewed by Marc Labie, CERMi codirector, to identify the challenges that microfinance and financial inclusion policies must face. From microcredit to financial health, Jonathan Morduch gives us his perception of what the future of this field could be.