CARE broadly defines service sector systems strengthening and social accountability as "a gender-equal, citizen-centered, and rights-based approach to bolster the sustainability of service systems outcomes and to ensure that services are provided in ways that are accountable, equitable, inclusive, and effective." CARE’s service sector systems strengthening and social accountability framework (4SA) has six interdependent building blocks: (1) people and skills, (2) information, negotiation, and accountability, (3) institutional leadership, governance, and coordination, (4) service delivery, infrastructure, and resources, (5) planning and financing, and (6) community and societal norms. Since 2002, CARE has engaged in education systems strengthening in 19 countries across East, Central and Southern Africa, the Middle East and Northern Africa region, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Asia. This thematic brief elaborates on the work done and results achieved under each of these six building blocks using examples from across the EAE portfolio, including Timor-Leste, Somalia, Cambodia, and India.
Women (in VSLAs) Respond, an ongoing exercise conducted by CARE, listens to how women in Village Savings & Loan Associations (VSLAs) are affected by and responding to shocks and crises in their communities. Read More
As the global economy undergoes two major shifts—the AI revolution and the green transition—we are at a critical crossroads: these transitions hold the power to help bring about a more equitable economy, but today’s markets are failing women. If we fail to act now and reshape markets, we risk aggravating inequality for generations to come and missing out on trillions worth of global growth. This report highlights systemic barriers women face in today's economies, the cost of inequality, and the opportunities for investing in women to create a thriving future for all. Read More
Strive Women’s 2024 baseline research assessed participants' financial health, financial inclusion, and business performance. This brief highlights findings related to entrepreneurs' confidence, decision-making, and control within Strive Women’s Financial Health Framework. Read More