Grameen Bank's 16 Decisions
One Small Loan Can Open the Door to New Lives
Grameen Bank's 16 Decisions are an example of a social development program melded with microcredit delivery. They were developed in a 1984 workshop of Grameen Bank members representing 100 centers, and have been an integral part of Grameen Bank's mission ever since.
Prospective members study the 16 Decisions and are tested on them before being accepted as members. Most center meetings include recitation of some of the 16 Decisions.
The 16 Decisions are a social development program that places primary responsibility on the members themselves. Special social programs designed by members may be implemented to support members in following the decisions. For example, to support decision 5, "during the planting seasons, we shall plant as many seedlings as possible," members might become involved in seed distribution.