The CNBS participates in the event ‘Include to grow: a call to action to close the gender financial gap in Uruguay’

The National Commission of Banks and Insurance, represented by Marcela Herrera, Manager of Financial Inclusion and Gender, participated on June 2 in the event “Include to Grow,” organized by UN Women Honduras, UN Women Uruguay, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and the Central Bank of Uruguay.

The meeting brought together key actors from the financial ecosystem to reflect on an urgent challenge: closing the gender gaps that still persist, especially in women’s access to productive credit, despite the fact that Uruguay has one of the most developed financial systems in the region and a financial inclusion law that has been in force for more than a decade.

The event made it possible to make this reality visible and fostered a valuable regional exchange with the support of UN Women Honduras, UN Women Uruguay, and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). In this space, a panel was also held with the participation of representatives from the financial sector of Ecuador and the CNBS of Honduras, who shared concrete experiences to advance towards greater financial inclusion with a gender perspective.

In this context, Licenciada Herrera participated prominently in the panel ‘Systemic Transformations in Practice,’ a space for dialogue and exchange among key actors in the financial system. During the conversation, it became evident how the incorporation of a gender approach drives institutional transformations, encourages innovation in products, and strengthens understanding of the market for women-led businesses.

Based on practical cases, the panel identified lessons, challenges, and opportunities in the processes of diagnosing, designing, and implementing inclusive financial solutions. Likewise, the importance of coordination between financial institutions, regulatory bodies, and strategic allies was highlighted to promote a more equitable and inclusive financial system.

Among the country’s advancements highlighted by Licenciada Herrera during her participation are the financial inclusion module, incorporated into the Multiple Purpose Household Survey, the 2025-2030 National Financial Inclusion Strategy, and the Financial Inclusion Diploma with a gender focus.

With this participation, the CNBS reaffirms its commitment to promoting comprehensive financial inclusion, aimed at generating greater opportunities for the entire Honduran population through actions that drive a more accessible, equitable, and sustainable financial system.