AWDR Globalization and Gender: Economic Participation of Arab Women (2001)

Arab countries are witnessing the rapid economic transformation imposed by globalization, while policy makers have little information about its social impact – and almost none about its impact on Arab women. CAWTAR devoted the first AWDR to addressing this glaring gap. The report covers the 22 Arab countries and consists of crucial data for anyone seeking to understand the overall phenomenon of economic globalization and its gender dimensions in Arab Region in particular.

The Report is divided into three parts. Part one assesses the impact of liberalization policies of Arab countries on women’s participation in the labor market. The second part delineates the aspects of the feminization of labor in the Arab region. The final part includes research questions for further in-depth studies and recommendations.

The notable findings of the Report include: First, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in most Arab states is not targeting sectors where female labor is likely to grow. Second, there are no far-reaching changes in the overall share of female labor in service sectors linked to global restructuring – such as information and communication technologies, trade and tourism. Finally, there is a subtle trend obliging Arab women to withdraw from the labor force, including women whose education and skills could contribute significantly to economic and social development.

 The notable findings of the Report include:

• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in most Arab states is not targeting sectors where female labor is likely to grow.
• There are no far-reaching changes in the overall share of female labor in service sectors linked to global restructuring – such as information and communication technologies, trade and tourism.
• There is a subtle socio-cultural trend forcing Arab women to withdraw from the labor force, including women whose education and skills could contribute significantly to economic and social development.

 The recommendations of the Report include:

1. Review national social security and tax systems to ensure that Arab women benefit from these services as autonomous actors, rather than dependants.

2. Address Arab women’s unemployment and under-employment to maintain their economic security, which is vital for their autonomy, the well-being of their families and potential national economic growth.

3. Reinforce gender equality in credit systems, technological labor-intensive activities, and employment training programs.

The Report is available in Arabic, English and French.

To download the Executive Summary of this Report click here.
To order a copy of this Report