Violence against women in the online space: Insights from a multi-country study in the Arab States

The research project included three complementary components: a. A quantitative web-based survey in 8 countries in the region with nearly 11,500 respondents, examining the prevalence, perceptions and implications of online violence; b. Qualitative research to explore experiences of online violence through the lens of civil society organizations (CSOs), women activists and service providers; and c. a mapping of existing laws and services related to online violence against women in the region. This document summarizes the key findings of the research project study and presents new knowledge on violence against women in the online space in the Arab States.

Equal Divorce Rights in Muslim Family Laws

This publication is produced by Musawah with support from UN Women within the framework of the ‘Men and Women for Gender Equality’ regional programme funded by Sweden.

The policy brief outlines outlines how divorce provisions in many Muslim family laws are unfair and can be damaging to women and their children—but we can reform those laws. In many Muslim contexts, men and women do not have equal access to divorce. A husband can often divorce simply by pronouncing it, without consent from or discussion with his wife, or even her knowledge. While a wife may be able to initiate several forms of divorce, it is far more difficult for her to be released from the marriage. Because men have easier access to divorce, they hold considerable power over their wives.

States must act to ensure that men and women have equal access and rights in the dissolution of marriage in terms of the types of divorce available and the ease in obtaining divorce.

Review of good practices for remote service delivery to survivors of violence in the Arab States region

This desk review summarizes global and regional trends and best practices and techniques for reaching out remotely to women and girls who experience violence, including during lockdowns and to survivors of online violence. It is based on a rapid desk review of the global and regional literature, with a particular focus on Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, State of Palestine, Tunisia and Yemen.

The Necessity of Childcare Services During Women’s Economic Empowerment and Livelihoods Programming in Lebanon

Few Syrian refugees and Lebanese women participate in the labour force in Lebanon, often due to critical gender barriers: housework and childcare obligations. This is particularly true for low-income women, who participate in economic activities at lower rates than men and are often unable to afford home help. Inadequate or absent childcare services contribute to women’s economic inactivity and serve as barriers that limit women’s mobility. Across Lebanon, existing childcare needs outstrip available childcare services. This research examines childcare options currently available to families, and largely female carers and parents and in low-income and economically marginalized areas participating in livelihoods and economic recovery programming. This study provides targeted strategic, programmatic and practical recommendations on how livelihoods and socioeconomic recovery programmes can offer childcare to programme participants. It draws attention to the experiences of working mothers with the goal of generating greater awareness of their needs. Finally, it contributes to efforts undertaken by the World Bank and ESCWA to strengthen national multi-stakeholder dialogue around the care economy and childcare.

Global Award for Women’s Empowerment

Four ways women can have their say on peace negotiations

Silent is NOT golden

Co-mediation

Overcoming Gender-Based Violence in Gaza, Palestine

“Because I a man” campaign