Access to Education and Employment

Women's Access to Education and Employment in Conflict-Affected Countries

Panel #3 Topic coming May 11th RSVP at https://www.globalctinstitute.org/event-details/women-in-security-2023-panel-3

By Todd M Price MBA

Access to education and employment is a fundamental right for all individuals, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, or socio-economic status. However, in conflict-affected countries, women often face significant barriers to accessing education and employment opportunities. This not only limits their personal growth and development but also has broader implications for their communities and societies at large.

In many conflict-affected countries, women's education and employment opportunities are severely limited due to a lack of resources and infrastructure, social and cultural norms, and security concerns [1]. Women may be discouraged from pursuing education or employment outside of the home, or may face significant challenges in accessing safe and secure learning or work environments. As a result, many women in these contexts are unable to develop the skills and knowledge needed to contribute fully to their communities and societies.

However, there are several solutions that can help to address these barriers and improve women's access to education and employment opportunities in conflict-affected countries. One solution is to prioritize investment in education and skills training programs that specifically target women [2]. These programs can provide women with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue employment opportunities, as well as the confidence and support to navigate the social and cultural barriers that may exist.

Another solution is to improve access to safe and secure learning and work environments for women. This may involve providing transportation, security, and other forms of support to ensure that women can attend school or work without fear of harassment or violence [3]. It may also involve working with communities and families to challenge social norms and attitudes that limit women's opportunities and perpetuate gender-based violence and discrimination.

In addition, it is essential to involve women in peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts, as their perspectives and experiences can help to inform more effective and sustainable solutions to conflict [4]. Women's participation in peace processes can also help to build trust and promote social cohesion, which are essential for long-term peace and stability.

Overall, improving women's access to education and employment opportunities in conflict-affected countries is essential for promoting gender equality, building resilient and sustainable communities, and achieving lasting peace and security. By investing in targeted education and skills training programs, improving access to safe and secure learning and work environments, and promoting women's participation in peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts, we can help to ensure that all women have the opportunity to reach their full potential and contribute fully to their communities and societies.

References:

[1] World Bank Group. (2018). Women, Business and the Law 2018: Getting to Equal. https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/bitstream/handle/10986/30455/9781464813304.pdf

[2] United Nations Development Programme. (2020). Women and Work in the Middle East and North Africa: The Role of Governance and Institutions. https://www.arabstates.undp.org/content/dam/rbas/doc/UNDP-Regional-Reports/Women-and-Work-in-MENA-Report-2020.pdf

[3] United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women. (2018). Turning Promises into Action: Gender Equality in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. https://www.unwomen.org/-/media/headquarters/attachments/sections/library/publications/2018/sdg-report-gender-equality-in-the-2030-agenda-for-sustainable-development-2018-en.pdf?la=en&vs=3239

[4] United Nations. (2020). Women and Peace and Security. https://www.un.org/womenwatch/osagi/wps/