This volume bring together influential contemporary research and discussion papers from Indian Ocean scholars to explore the issue of women's economic empowerment in the Indian Ocean rim. Women's economic empowerment has become a central policy concern of many Indian Ocean rim countries, such as Australia, and of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). This book highlights a range of perspectives on the issue from a variety of case studies. Its aim is to provide research that helps develop evidence-based policy-making, to assist in the better implementation of gender responsive policy frameworks and budgets. The book covers themes such as: regional governance approaches to fostering women's economic empowerment; the obstacles to informal trade; gender bias in policy development; and differing roles and purposes for women's education. This volume is essential reading for all those interested in policy affecting development; trade; women's education; professional training and training; governance structures and practices; and gender equality in the Indian Ocean region. The chapters originally published as a special issue in the Journal of the Indian Ocean Region.