Deep-seated sexism marginalising Arab women

Deep-seated sexism within the business and political arenas is marginalising the role of women in the Arab world, a former ambassador to the EU claimed on Monday.

Speaking at the Arab International Women's Forum (AIWF) in Dubai, professor Aicha Belarbi told delegates that due to this Arab nations continue to lag behind the rest of the world in terms of female representation in the workforce and government.

"Women are very absent in politics and as decision makers. The percentage of women in government and especially as ministers in Arab countries is very weak," she said.

The professor, who works at University Mohammed V in Morocco, said when women are appointed in the business or political roles it is usually just a token appointment.

"Men are not appointing women as a critical mass. In many institutions a woman does a simple role," she said.
"One of these officials I have spoken to said he usually starts with only one woman in a high position or maybe two because he first liked to ensure she could be adapted to the job. Women are often just a symbol."

Belarbi suggested that an incorrect interpretation of Islam has marginalised the role of women in public life and the exclusion of women from politics.

Islam does give women the right to work, to own property and to live a public life, she said.

Belarbi pointed to research that shows a higher rate of female participation in the workforce is linked to higher participation in politics.

The special report Arabian Businesswomen 2008 - Celebrating Excellence aims to celebrate the achievements of women in commerce and trade in the region and globally. Click here to view more.

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