The Gender Working Group

The MENA2050 Gender Working Group is a bold cross-regional initiative grounded in the simple truth that advancing gender equality is essential not only for justice, but for building a more peaceful, prosperous, and cooperative MENA region.
As economic, environmental, and political challenges intensify, gender equality remains both a critical gap and a transformative opportunity. The GWG brings together women leaders from across the region to collaborate, strategize, and act on systemic solutions that put gender equity at the center of MENA’s future.
 

Our Mission

• Champion women’s leadership in political, economic, and civic life

• Foster cross-border partnerships and peer exchange among women leaders

• Develop practical, future-oriented solutions through a gender lens

   

Focus Areas

We work across high-impact domains where women’s leadership can reshape the region:

• Women’s political participation and civic leadership

• Economic empowerment and innovation access

• Climate resilience and sustainability

• Ending gender-based violence

   

What We Do

Through regional dialogues, storytelling campaigns, policy innovation, and joint fundraising, the GWG connects grassroots leadership to a shared 2050 vision, amplifying women’s voices and catalyzing change.
Founded by Elana Banin, and co-led by Dr. Sara Bazoobandi, Nidal Azhary, and Wydiane Djaidi, the Working Group is supported by a committed core team and the MENA2050 Secretariat.