In the Pacific, Regional Cooperation Is Driving a More Gender-Inclusive Financial Landscape

Pacific islands’ cultural diversity shapes gender roles and financial access, influencing women’s economic participation. In Melanesia, patriarchal structures dominate, limiting women’s access to land and finance. Polynesia, with its mix of matrilineal and patriarchal systems, sees women actively engaged in small enterprises, yet struggling for financial support. Micronesian women, often in remote areas, face financial exclusion due to limited services and economic opportunities. 

In response to these challenges, central banks in the Pacific are stepping up to create a more inclusive financial landscape. They are pushing for gender-responsive financial policies, improving financial literacy, expanding digital banking to reach remote communities, and supporting women-led businesses through better access to credit and leadership roles.