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Women in the MENA Region

Women in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region face a variety of challenges that limit their place in society as well as their potential to influence their own personal development. Rooted in patriarchal traditions and norms, these challenges not only limit women’s individual progress but also hinder the advancement of entire societies and nations. From economic discrimination to gender-based violence (GBV) and political underrepresentation, the barriers confronting women in the MENA region are manifold and urgent to address in order for the region to prosper. 

Statistics paint a stark picture of the realities faced by women in the MENA region. With only 19% of women participating in the workforce, the region has one of the lowest rates globally (UNODC, 2022). Between 2019 and 2020 there was a significant 4% drop in women’s employment, highlighting systemic challenges and barriers to women’s economic empowerment (ILO, 2021). Moreover, the MENA region has the second lowest female representation in parliament globally, with only 17% of seats held by women. Since 2020 there has been a decline in women’s political empowerment and representation in parliament, underscoring a gap in ensuring that a diversity of perspectives are represented in decision-making processes and highlighting the importance in fostering inclusive governance that reflects the needs and interests of all citizens (Word Bank, 2022).

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​The alarming prevalence of child marriages in the MENA region sees 700,000 girls entering into marriages each year, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality while depriving young girls of their rights and opportunities for personal growth. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated this issue, with economic hardships and disruptions to education systems, leading to an increase in child marriages (UNICEF, 2022). Additionally, lockdown measures and economic instability caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the prevalence of gender-based violence, with 37% of women in the region having experienced sexual violence. This distressing statistic underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to prevent GBV since such violence not only inflicts physical and psychological harm on women but also perpetuates cycles of trauma and inequality within societies (UNFPA, 2020).

However, amidst these challenges, women in the MENA region are actively forging pathways to empowerment and resilience, challenging prevalent stereotypes portraying them as victims. Arab women show remarkable determination in pursuing their goals despite formidable obstacles. Study after study reveals that when women are genuinely empowered and actively engaged, society as a whole benefits (UN Women, 2020). By equipping women with the necessary tools to impact others and be a voice for change in society, we witness a transformative ripple effect that uplifts not only individual women but entire communities and societies. This interconnected cycle of empowerment fosters a culture of respect, understanding and progress for generations to come. 

 

Through Arab Woman Today’s programs women are equipped to be a voice for change in society. We provide a range of tools and skills through online and on-ground training, coaching, counseling, and create spaces for women to network and share their life experiences. All this is leading to Arab women across the MENA region being empowered to live out her full meaning of life. A testimonial from a woman impacted by our efforts speaks volumes:

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 “An eternal truth we learned from Esther is that God will use both men and women to fulfill his plans, God created women in His image and this inspires me to be bold. I am not less than a man, He created me equal and I have a message and a purpose” 

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In conclusion, empowering women in the MENA region is both a moral imperative and a strategic investment in the collective prosperity and well-being of societies. As we work towards building a more inclusive and equitable future, it is imperative that the voices, aspirations and rights of women are central to our efforts. Only then can we truly realize the transformative potential of gender equality and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow for all. 

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