Pathways linking WASH access and women’s empowerment: Evidence from Zambia and Honduras

This study examines how access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services relates to women’s empowerment in Zambia and Honduras, using data from 3,434 households. Results show significant correlations between WASH access and women’s intrinsic and instrumental agency, with stronger associations in Zambia. Treating water is linked to greater self-efficacy and women’s input into agricultural production decisions. Findings suggest that WASH access can influence multiple dimensions of women’s agency.