Digital Financial Inclusion: A Lifeline for Sustainable Development Goals—Lessons from Bangladesh Through Crisis and Beyond
摘要
The COVID-19 pandemic had an enormous impact on the world. It affected not only people's health but also their finances. Many people lost their jobs and fell into poverty, while others had to find new ways to make ends meet. During this time governments worldwide have adopted digital solutions to disburse social protection funds directly to their citizens, protect businesses, and ensure economic relief. The smartphone become wallet for many who had never used technology or had a bank account. This chapter explores the role of digital financial technology in reducing poverty and promoting financial inclusion. It highlights how smart government policies and innovation helped preserve livelihoods and drive progress towards a more inclusive financial system. Initiatives in Bangladesh led by bKash, Rocket and Nagad are transforming the economic landscape, supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and empowering marginalised communities, specially women and rural residents. The chapter also discusses strategies for replicating and adapting these practices in other South Asian nations.