Can social inclusion policies promote financial inclusion?
International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy
ISSN: 0144-333X
Article publication date: 7 April 2023
Issue publication date: 25 October 2023
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine whether social inclusion policies promote financial inclusion. Three social inclusion policies were analyzed: gender equality policies, environmental sustainability policies and social protection (SP) policies.
Design/methodology/approach
The study used the panel fixed effect regression methodology to analyze data from 48 low- and medium-income countries.
Findings
The results show that social inclusion policies do not have a significant effect on financial inclusion. Also, the older population is less likely to own an account at a formal financial institution in low- and medium-income countries that have strong environmental sustainability policies and institutions. The implication of the finding is that the policies and institutions established to promote environmental sustainability can discourage the older population from keeping the population's wealth in formal financial institutions in the country.
Practical implications
Policy makers should consider how social and environmental policies and programs can be designed to promote financial inclusion for older individuals in the individuals' countries.
Originality/value
The financial inclusion literature has not considered the role of social inclusion policies in promoting financial inclusion for individuals, businesses and the excluded groups in a country.
Keywords
Citation
Ozili, P.K. (2023), "Can social inclusion policies promote financial inclusion?", International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, Vol. 43 No. 11/12, pp. 1138-1155. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSSP-03-2023-0054
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2023, Emerald Publishing Limited