Technology as the key to women’s empowerment: a scoping review

Abstract Background Information and communications technologies (ICTs) have empowered people to communicate network at a global scale. However, there is lack of in-depth understanding the use ICTs for women's empowerment. This study examines how concept empowerment defined, utilized measured in research studies, existing evidence on women’s gaps knowledge level. Methods The authors’ conducted scoping review using Arksey O’Malley methodology. search identified papers from ten databases, including Scopus, Embase, ABI Inform, Soc Index, Sociological Abstracts, Gender Studies, Springer Link, PsychInfo, Science Direct, Academic Search Complete over period 2012–2018. criteria included articles that focused as interventions. Out total 4481 were initially identified, 51 included. Results Technology played variety roles supporting development capacities resources. revealed ICT interventions overarching areas outreach (e.g., health promotion), education literacy opportunities), lifestyle peer coaching planning), prevention screening challenges intimate partner violence apps), perceptions barriers (i.e., uptake, utilization ubiquity women). Despite positive technology support women their daily lives, was consensus regarding definition term also inconsistently poorly individual studies making it difficult determine if achieved. Conclusion provides comprehensive current emerging efforts empower women. findings suggest need collaborative between researchers, program implementers policy makers well various communities address persistent gender disparities with respect ICTs.