International Capital Flows: Identifying the Gender Dimension

Abstract

This paper explores the main issues involved in examining the gender impact of international capital flows to developing countries. It argues that at the macroeconomic level women lose more than men from slow and/or unstable economic growth, financial crises and meltdowns, and even more so the longer and deeper the economic downturn because, without a social security system, the family and women have many additional burdens. Women should formulate an agenda of their own with respect to international monetary reform and some proposals are outlined in this respect, including those involving capital controls.

Keywords: financial crises, gender, international financial system