The Way Forward after the Revolution: Decent Work for Women in Egypt and Tunisia - Phase II

Description What is done in the programme or project and why, what results are pursued, who benefits from the activities and who are involved in the implementation.

The gender employment gap is still large in the Middle East and North Africa, particularly in Egypt and Tunisia. Female labour force participation rates in the region are not only the lowest in the world but are also rising very slowly. Higher level of educational attainment does not translate into improved labour market participation. Low female employment rate has a negative effect on economic growth. ILO's project aims at supporting women to better participate in labour market through a comprehensive approach that tackles at the same time access to employment, entrepreneurship, decent work conditions, and social dialogue. Finland has funded the project in 2012-2017 (3,1 MEUR). The project has proceeded well: 705 officials and members of employers' and workers' organisations have been trained on women rights and gender equality, and the skills of women have been enhanced. In addition, the national knowledge base on gender-sensitive issues is improved and tripartite recommendations for reform of the policy and legislative environment concerning women's rights and gender equality in the labour market are formulated. Finland's contribution in 2018 - 2021 is EUR 2 170 435.