PSCCW is organizing a roundtable discussion session to analyze a research paper titled ‘The Effects of Israeli Aggression on the Economic Situation of Working Women in the West Bank and Gaza Strip’

Ramallah: The Psychosocial Counseling Center for Women in partnership with the Palestinian General Federation of Trade Unions, held a roundtable discussion session on Monday, March 4, 2024, at the Caesar Hotel in Ramallah. The discussion focused on analyzing a research paper titled “The Effects of Israeli Aggression on the Economic Situation of Working Women in the West Bank and Gaza Strip,” prepared by the Palestine Economic Policy Research Institute (MAS). The event was attended by the Executive Director of PSCCW, Khawla Al-Azraq, the Secretary-General of the Palestinian General Federation of Trade Unions, Shaher Saad, and representatives from governmental and non-governmental institutions.

The paper aims to analyze the impact of Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023, on women in the labor market, with a focus on the most vulnerable economic groups. It sheds light on the reality of women in the private sector before and after the aggression, and provides recommendations to enhance their participation in the labor market and protect their labor, economic, and social rights. It also discusses the measures required by all parties to alleviate the burdens imposed on women as a result of this aggression and the subsequent economic challenges, especially the increase in unemployment rates among women and the layoffs of thousands of women from private sector jobs.

A series of recommendations and suggestions were presented, which will be formulated into a report to be submitted to relevant authorities, specifically governmental bodies represented by the Ministry of Labor, the Ministry of Social Development, and the Ministry of Women’s Affairs. Additionally, this meeting will lead to organizing in-depth discussions to devise effective mechanisms for addressing the emerging challenges, which are undoubtedly becoming more complex amid the rapid and continuous deterioration of political and economic conditions.