TITLE:
The Role of Information Technology in Women’s Empowerment: A Discussion in the Context of Bangladesh
AUTHORS:
Sharmin Shahria
KEYWORDS:
Women, Technology, Economic Empowerment
JOURNAL NAME:
Advances in Applied Sociology,
Vol.16 No.11,
November
6,
2026
ABSTRACT: In Bangladesh, there have been notable developments in the area of women’s empowerment. Women’s participation in various fields including politics, economy, government and private sector jobs is increasing. One of the key elements of empowering women is their economic independence. When women achieve self-sufficiency, they find it easier to express their views and engage in various aspects of life, including personal, familial and social spheres. At present, information technology (IT) is significantly influencing the economic independence of women in Bangladesh. IT is transforming the landscape of opportunities available to women. Through the benefits of technology, women can now prioritize access to education, job opportunities, entrepreneurship and social involvement. With the rise of mobile phones, internet access, and digital platforms, women in Bangladesh are increasingly able to obtain information from home, participate in online education and engage in income-generating activities such as freelancing and e-commerce. Initiatives like Digital Bangladesh and ICT training programs specifically designed for women have further accelerated this progress. However, the digital divide continues to be a substantial barrier, especially for women in rural and marginalized communities who face challenges related to limited access to technology, digital literacy and cultural barriers. By addressing the barriers, IT can become a transformative force that enables Bangladeshi women to overcome socio-economic constraints, enhance their representation and contribute more actively to national development. This paper explores the multifaceted role of IT in advancing women’s empowerment in Bangladesh.