An exemplary external electrode fluorescent lamp includes a fluorescent tube having two electrodes fixed at two ends thereof, and two inner caps respectively holding the electrodes. Each inner cap includes an electrode receiving portion configured for receiving the electrode, a conductive layer provided at inner surfaces of the electrode receiving portion, a lead receiving portion integrally formed with the electrode receiving portion, and a conductive lead received in the lead receiving portion. The conductive layer contacts the conductive layer. A backlight module employing the external electrode fluorescent lamp is also provided.