Daijiworld Media Network- Dubai
Dubai, May 13: In a significant step toward fostering global dialogue on gender equality, the UAE Gender Balance Council showcased the nation's pioneering efforts in women's empowerment at the G20 Women's Empowerment Working Group meeting held in South Africa from May 8 to 9 under the country's G20 Presidency.
The UAE delegation, led by Mouza Mohammed Al Ghuwais Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the Council, and Maitha Al Hashimi, Director of Strategic Studies and Legislation, underscored the country’s transformative strides in promoting gender balance across all sectors.
Focusing on key national achievements, the UAE presentation highlighted initiatives in eliminating gender-based violence, enhancing the care economy, and expanding financial inclusion. The Council also stressed the UAE’s strategic approach in increasing women’s representation in leadership roles, which has seen marked success across both government and private sectors.
Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, noted the strong alignment between the G20 Working Group’s goals and the UAE’s national agenda. She praised the leadership of H.H. Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the Council, for her visionary guidance that has led to tangible progress in women’s empowerment.
“Through institutional support, progressive legislation, and targeted programmes, we have achieved major milestones in empowering women across government, business, technology, and the green economy,” said Al Marri.
During her address, Mouza Al Suwaidi highlighted that women now make up 50% of the Federal National Council, and hold about one-third of UAE Cabinet positions. She noted growing female representation in the judiciary, diplomatic service, and top executive roles, attributing this progress to strong policy backing and leadership support.
Al Suwaidi reaffirmed the country’s commitment to financial inclusion, pointing to constitutional rights and Central Bank policies that ensure equal access to credit, property ownership, and commercial participation for women. The 2018 Equal Pay for Equal Work Law was cited as a key enabler of economic parity.
She also elaborated on the UAE’s support for a growing care economy, marked by comprehensive policies including maternity and parental leave, remote work options, and on-site nurseries in government institutions. The establishment of the Ministry of Family Affairs in 2024 was hailed as a crucial step toward reinforcing family and societal stability.
The UAE’s robust legal and policy framework against gender-based violence was also emphasized, with Al Suwaidi affirming that women’s safety and well-being remain national priorities.
“The G20 platform allows us to share best practices and learn from one another,” she concluded. “We look forward to building a world where our daughters and sons enjoy equal rights, equal opportunities, and equal safety.”
On the sidelines of the event, Al Suwaidi held bilateral meetings with several dignitaries, including Sindisiwe Chikunga (South Africa), Dr. Maimoona Al Khalil (Saudi Arabia), Anil Malik (India), Reinaldo Luther Yusak Lolong (Indonesia), Leow Sui Lin (Singapore), and Wendy Teleki, Head of the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative, to explore collaborations in gender policy and empowerment strategies.