The idea and practice of microfinance – critical approach

Abstract

The objective of this paper is presentation and analysis of negative opinions of microfinance expressed by a wide group of specialists dealing with the microfinance form of supporting the efforts to fight poverty and financial exclusion. This problem has become the subject matter of discussions in scientific studies as well as mass media and covers a wide range of issues, referring not only to the ideological message of this particular form of financial intermediation, but also its practical aspects. The arguments presented in the paper and the underlying analyses are a result of literature studies as well as the author’s own reflections and remarks related to the discussed issues.