Morocco/Marrakech: International conference highlights Moroccan experience in women's economic empowerment

The Moroccan experience in women's economic empowerment was highlighted on Monday in Marrakech at a conference on the theme of "Women's empowerment and sustainable development", attended by representatives of national councils belonging to the International Council of Women.

Organized on the sidelines of the 37ᵉ General Assembly ( GA) of the International Council of Women, taking place from June 23 to 28, the meeting showcased a diversity of national and international experiences, around a major issue for development and social justice.

The focus was on the pioneering experience of the National Union of Moroccan Women (UNFM), chaired by HRH Princess Lalla Meryem, as a key player in promoting women's economic empowerment. Since its creation in 1969, the Union has led numerous initiatives to promote the qualification and economic inclusion of women, particularly in the most vulnerable areas.

Among the structuring projects cited at the meeting were women's training centers, as well as entrepreneurial support schemes, including management training, support for access to financing and campaigns to raise awareness of economic and social rights.

The conference also devoted considerable space to international experiences, notably those of the UK, Portugal, Taiwan, South Africa, Nigeria and Australia, with exchanges on the possibility of adapting certain approaches to local realities.

In this respect, the speakers addressed a variety of themes, such as the promotion of women's entrepreneurship, the role of the economy, the use of technology, access to healthcare and essential services, as well as legal and policy frameworks in favor of economic equality.

The participants also stressed the need for an integrated approach, based on the involvement of women in all stages of planning and implementation.The participants also stressed the need for an integrated approach, based on the involvement of women in all stages of development policy planning and implementation, calling for intensified South-South and North-South exchanges and the capitalization of successful experiences.

The holding in Morocco of this 37ᵉ Assembly of the International Council of Women is, according to the organizers, a recognition of the Kingdom's leadership in this field, and reflects HRH Princess Lalla Meryem's constant commitment to the active participation of women in development and the building of an equitable society.

Founded in 1888, the International Council of Women today brings together the national councils of over 70 countries, and remains one of the oldest international organizations working to promote women's rights and gender equality.

Source: www.mapexpress.ma