International Women's Day 2024: MENA Perspective

Middle East Women Initiative highlights 'Investing in Women' theme this International Women's Day, addressing poverty, green economies, and feminist change-makers.

Today, on International Women's Day, the Middle East Program (MEP) Middle East Women Initiative is celebrating this year's publications on our blog, Enheduanna, which launched five years ago on March 8. The focus of this year's publications centers around the theme of 'Investing in Women,' delving into topics such as alleviating poverty, empowering women in green and care economies, and supporting feminist change-makers.

This International Women's Day is particularly significant as it marks 153 days since the start of the Hamas-Israel War. The conflict has had a devastating impact on innocent women and children, leading to sexual violence, starvation, and forced displacement for survivors. Despite ongoing struggles for women's rights in various parts of the MENA region, notably in Afghanistan and Iran, it remains crucial to acknowledge the efforts being made towards a future where women have agency and empowerment, and societies are just, inclusive, and equitable.

The global shift towards a green economy presents a pivotal moment not only for transitioning to a more sustainable economic model but also for creating new industries and job opportunities. This transition offers a significant opportunity to increase female labor force participation, which can have positive impacts on women and national economies, potentially boosting GDP by 1.2%.

However, it is essential to address the barriers that prevent women from fully participating in the workforce. Questions remain about how to facilitate women's entry into the workforce and overcome obstacles that hinder their economic participation.

Transitioning to a care society involves recognizing and valuing the unpaid care work that women predominantly undertake. Policies and frameworks must be established to address the gender gaps in the labor force and alleviate barriers to women's economic empowerment.

In the MENA region, considerations for job opportunities women seek are crucial. Factors such as access to childcare, flexible working hours, and safe commuting options play a significant role in women's decision-making when seeking employment. Initiatives like offering free transportation and medical insurance aim to attract more women to the workforce.

The green economic transformation and shift towards a care society both aim to address the current economic system's disproportionate impact on vulnerable groups, particularly women. By centering people and the planet, these initiatives seek to create a more equitable and sustainable economy that benefits all members of society.

In rural Tunisia, the feminization of poverty remains a stark reality, with women disproportionately represented in low-paying sectors and lacking social protection. Despite progress in providing social security through initiatives like the 'Ahmini' app, rural women continue to face challenges in accessing decent work and quality healthcare.

Efforts to empower rural women in Tunisia and improve their access to the labor market can have significant impacts on agricultural production and food security. By addressing inequalities in income and labor market access, the country can work towards reducing poverty and improving the livelihoods of rural women.

Women in the MENA region play crucial roles in foreign policy and politics, challenging traditional gender norms and influencing policy decisions. Their participation in peace processes and advocacy for human rights and gender equality have been instrumental in fostering inclusive dialogues and sustainable solutions.

Despite facing systemic barriers and societal challenges, women in the MENA region have demonstrated resilience and determination in breaking through male-dominated spheres of foreign policy and politics. Supporting these feminist change-makers is essential in creating a more peaceful, just, and equitable world.

Investing in women is not just about financial support; it is about recognizing the need for gender-responsive financing, adapting economies, alleviating poverty, and supporting feminist organizations. These steps are crucial in realizing women's rights and gender equality at all levels, from grassroots initiatives to top governmental echelons. Ultimately, investing in women is a transformative process that aims to democratize power along gendered lines and bring about structural change.