A high-level panel discussion titled "Opportunities and Challenges of Women's Participation in the Labor Market" was recently organized by the National Institute for Planning in Egypt. The event was part of the institute's 10th annual international conference on "Labor Market and Sustainable Development." The discussion brought together several prominent figures, including Marian Qaldas, a member of the National Council for Women and alternate rapporteur of the Economic Committee.

The panel discussion featured Dr. Hala Said, former Minister of Planning and Economic Development and current advisor to the President on economic affairs, who delivered a recorded speech. Other participants included Marwa Alam El-Din, acting head of the United Nations Women's office in Egypt, and Inji El-Yamani, executive director of the Rural and Environmental Industries Support Fund at the Ministry of Social Solidarity. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Heba Magieb, a professor of public administration and director of the Center for Industrial Planning and Development at the National Institute for Planning.

The discussion focused on the current state of women's participation in the Egyptian labor market, highlighting the key challenges and opportunities they face. The participants explored ways to enhance women's economic participation and achieve sustainable economic empowerment, with a focus on several areas, including care economy, support services, financing, work environment, and connecting projects to markets and value chains.

The importance of investing in women's skills and abilities was emphasized, as well as the need to create a supportive work environment that provides equal opportunities for women to participate, continue, and advance in their careers. The participants also stressed the importance of cooperation between relevant parties to increase women's economic participation and harness their potential as a key partner in development.

The National Council for Women's participation in the discussion was part of its ongoing efforts to support women's economic empowerment and enhance their participation in the labor market. This aligns with the National Strategy for Empowering Egyptian Women 2030 and supports Egypt's efforts towards achieving sustainable development.

The event highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to address the challenges facing women's participation in the labor market. This includes providing support services, financing, and a favorable work environment, as well as promoting women's economic empowerment and sustainable development.

The discussion concluded with a call for continued collaboration and coordination between relevant parties to promote women's economic participation and empowerment. This aims to harness women's potential and ensure their active participation in Egypt's development journey.

Key points

  • The National Council for Women participated in a high-level panel discussion on women's participation in the labor market, highlighting challenges and opportunities for economic empowerment.
  • The discussion emphasized the importance of investing in women's skills and creating a supportive work environment to promote their economic participation.
  • The event aimed to support Egypt's efforts towards achieving sustainable development and promoting women's economic empowerment.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.