Bangkok--2 Jun--Center for International Private Enterprise May 31st, 2011 An interview with Manal Omar Director of Iraq and Iran Programs, United States Institute of Peace CIPE: Women represent 70 percent of the world’s poor even though they perform over 60 percent of the world’s work. What are some of the key barriers women face in political, economic, and civic spheres that prevent them from equal participation? Manal Omar (MO): The biggest barrier is access by women to the decision-making table. This does not just mean women’s participation in national government or representation in parliament. Such high-level inclusion is an important step but does not necessarily translate into empowering women on the ground in other spheres beyond the national political arena. Women need to be part of farmers’ collectives, business associations, labor unions, city councils, etc. Often women are performing tasks in an informal capacity and their real contributions are not captured. Many societies use religious and cultural arguments to force women into the invisible sphere. However, over time, societies are beginning to realize they will not be able to progress without the full participation of women. I often highlight that we have moved beyond the “nice” argument – in other words, the argument that focuses on women’s empowerment as a nice thing to do. It has become very clear that women’s empowerment is necessary. To incorporate women in the political, economic, and civic lives of their countries is smart and strategic. Any country that wants to see economic growth, strong governance, and sustainable peace must ensure that women are included not only as various policies are implemented, but from the beginning of the decision-making process View this article in PDF format: http://www.cipe.org/publications/fs/pdf/053111.pdf *Source: Center for International Private Enterprise (www.cipe.org)