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International Women’s Day 2021
The Middle East Program invited women writers, scholars, and professionals from the Middle East and North Africa region who shine a light on the women of MENA. If their voices are heard, the Biden administration's Gender Policy Council’s work may effectively move the needle for women in a region that continues to be vital to US national security.
One year into the global pandemic, the status of women has regressed, particularly on the economic, social, and political fronts. Akin to global trends, the region has witnessed a surge in gender-based violence and in job losses amongst employed women, adding to the myriad challenges women already face in society. These women leaders reveal difficult challenges facing women throughout MENA, but guide us to important solutions as well as how the United States can support efforts on the ground.