MENA’s Mixed Progress on Gender Parity: A Closer Look at Egypt and UAE’s Forward Steps

Giorgia Valente, a recent graduate of Ca’ Foscari University of Venice and an intern in The Media Line’s Press and Policy Student Program, reports on the strides and struggles of gender parity in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, focusing on the advancements in the UAE and Egypt. Despite these countries’ progress, the MENA region as a whole continues to lag in closing the gender gap, particularly in economic opportunities and political empowerment for women. The 2023 Global Gender Gap Report indicates a slight decline in parity, underscoring the challenges women face across the region. However, initiatives like Egypt’s Women’s Vision 2030 aim to empower women and ensure greater representation in political and economic spheres. Valente’s article also highlights the efforts of activists like Hibaaq Osman, who work to address inequality, especially in rural areas where women face significant barriers. The UAE’s recent surpassing of Israel in the Global Gender Gap Index and its supportive policies toward women’s employment and empowerment are also discussed, alongside the broader context of gender-based violence and the need for continued focus on gender-related issues in the region. For an in-depth look at the challenges and achievements in advancing gender parity in the MENA region, readers are encouraged to read the full article on The Media Line’s website.