The issue of gender equality, encapsulated in the phrase “التوازن بين الجنسين,” continues to gain traction globally, particularly in initiatives like the workshop titled “المساواة في الأجر للأعمال ذات القيمة المتساوية.” This workshop, organized by the UAE Gender Balance Council in collaboration with the World Bank, showcases the nation’s commitment to promoting equal pay for equal work and empowering women in the economic development landscape.
A Commitment to Gender Balance
As part of its dedication to the principles of gender balance, the UAE has launched various initiatives to enhance women’s participation in economic development. The workshop “المساواة في الأجر للأعمال ذات القيمة المتساوية” was held under the auspices of the UAE Center for Gender Balance Excellence and Knowledge Exchange, a regional hub established in partnership with the World Bank in 2022. This center aims to promote gender balance throughout the MENA region by providing consultations, organizing workshops, and sharing best practices.
Key Participants and Objectives
The workshop witnessed the participation of a diverse group of leaders and officials from both the public and private sectors, alongside experts from the World Bank. The primary aim was to build on existing achievements in gender pay equality and equip institutions with the tools necessary to translate commitments into tangible outcomes. Additionally, participants shared best practices and experiences in the field.
The event followed an important Gulf dialogue held during the “Knowledge Exchange Workshop for Gulf Cooperation Council States,” which took place on June 17 and 18. This prior gathering, also co-hosted by the UAE Gender Balance Council and the World Bank, included discussions from policymakers and experts regarding the enhancement of women’s economic empowerment across the region.
Insights from Key Leaders
Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, noted that the UAE introduced the region’s first law in 2019 aimed at ensuring equal pay between genders in government entities. This was followed by additional legislation in 2020 regarding equal pay for equal value work in the private sector. As she stated, “Equality in pay for equal work is fundamental to creating opportunities for growth and sustainable development.”
She emphasized that integrating the principle of gender balance into the national economy demands effective and ongoing collaboration between the governmental and private sectors. Her Highness underscored the importance of fairly recognizing women’s contributions across various sectors as a cornerstone for building strong societies and successful institutions.
Moving Forward
Maitha Al-Muhairi, Deputy Chairperson of the UAE Gender Balance Council, remarked that the UAE Center for Gender Balance Excellence aims to foster equal pay through innovation and global experience sharing. The productive discussions during the workshop represent a significant step in translating gender balance core values into real outcomes. By stimulating dialogue between the public and private sectors on wage equality, the initiative enhances a national priority impacting the UAE’s economic growth and competitiveness.
Throughout the workshop, practical tools for employers were outlined to successfully implement equal pay for equal value work, ensuring fair compensation and ongoing improvement in workplace environments. The UAE Center for Gender Balance Excellence continues to play a pivotal role in facilitating the translation of commitments into achievements through innovative exchanges and success stories.
Conclusion of the Workshop
The workshop highlighted the necessity of creating fair and competitive labor markets, as emphasized by Eva Hamel, the World Bank’s Representative in the UAE. She stated, “Achieving equal pay between men and women is crucial for establishing equitable labor markets.” With the collaborative efforts of the UAE Gender Balance Council and the World Bank, the discourse around wage equality in all sectors is set to gain momentum.
Mozah Mohamed Al-Ghoais, the Secretary-General of the UAE Gender Balance Council, affirmed that gender balance stands as a foundational principle in the nation’s vision. She appreciated the valuable insights provided by private sector leaders during the workshop, aiming for optimal application of wage equality measures. The collaboration between governmental and private sectors is essential for establishing high standards for inclusive workplaces and enhancing equal opportunity.
As progression continues, the commitment to “التوازن بين الجنسين” remains vital, setting an example for nations globally in empowering women with equal opportunities for success and recognition.