For many, Egypt conjures images of a rich history and a vibrant culture. However, beneath the surface lies a stark reality – a nation failing to harness the full potential of its most valuable resource: its women.
I arrived in Egypt in 2011, expecting to find a progressive society with empowered women. While I encountered brilliant female lawyers, activists, and entrepreneurs, they represented a small fraction of the population. The vast majority faced a different reality. Here, a woman's right to education, work, or even leaving home remains uncertain.
This societal disconnect is even more perplexing considering Egypt's educational strides. Girls and boys now have comparable school enrollment rates, with universities witnessing a female majority. Yet, this hasn't translated into workforce participation. For every Egyptian woman working, four stay home – a figure that hasn't budged in decades.
Globalization, often touted as a catalyst for female empowerment, has yielded the opposite effect in Egypt. Compared to a decade ago, women are less likely to pursue careers and more focused on marriage. It's a stark contrast to the success stories of other developing nations, where globalization paved the way for increased female participation in the economy.
This anomaly lies in deeply ingrained social norms. Egyptian society adheres to a rigid patriarchal structure, where men are seen as the primary providers, and women are expected to be submissive wives. Religious interpretations, like the verse from the Quran that assigns men as protectors and maintainers, solidify this dynamic.
Leaders like Gamal Abdel Nasser made significant strides in the 1950s by granting women voting rights and expanding their educational opportunities. Subsequent administrations continued these efforts, with female empowerment becoming a prominent national discourse.
However, under the current regime, women's issues are no longer a priority. The onus of change now falls on numerous NGOs, which often lack the capacity for large-scale, systemic transformation.
The unequal status of women transcends the domestic sphere. It shapes how men behave in public institutions and workplaces. When powerful men belittle women's abilities, it sets a dangerous precedent, mirroring the dynamics within families.
Ironically, some sectors, like the garment industry, prefer female employees. Women are seen as more dedicated, reliable, and productive. A pioneering initiative by a textile company to recruit and train female workers from rural areas proved highly successful, showcasing their untapped potential.
Egypt's current course is unsustainable. It's an economic tragedy to educate millions of women and then deny them an opportunity to contribute. Moreover, the unchecked power imbalance within families translates into societal problems.
Unlocking Egypt's full potential requires a multi-pronged approach. Social attitudes need to shift, with a focus on promoting gender equality within families and communities. Additionally, corporations must actively recruit and empower women, creating an environment conducive to their success.
Egypt stands at a crossroads. Will it continue to squander the skills and talents of half its population, or will it seize the opportunity to create a more prosperous and equitable future for all?
