Egypt is taking further steps to strengthen the inclusion and empowerment of women with disabilities as the National Council for Women resumes the activities of its Committee for Women with Disabilities and outlines a new roadmap focused on participation, equality, and access to opportunities.
The committee recently held its first meeting following the resumption of its activities, chaired by Zeina Tawkol, Member of the National Council for Women and Rapporteur of the Committee for Women with Disabilities, alongside Deputy Rapporteur Maha Helaly and committee members. The meeting reviewed the committee’s achievements and the council’s efforts to support women with disabilities between 2016 and 2024 while setting priorities for the coming period.
Expanding Opportunities for Women with Disabilities
Opening the session, Zeina Tawkol expressed appreciation for the contributions of former committee members and praised the work of Dr. Heba Hagrass, the committee’s previous rapporteur. She also welcomed the new members and emphasized the importance of building on previous achievements.
Tawkol highlighted that the next phase will focus on integrating the concerns and priorities of women with disabilities across all programs and initiatives implemented by the National Council for Women. The goal is to ensure their full and effective participation in economic, social, and public life while promoting equal access to services and opportunities.
Building on a Decade of Progress
Maha Helaly reviewed the council’s efforts since the establishment of the Committee for Women with Disabilities in 2016. She highlighted the council’s contribution to advancing legislation and policies that support the rights of persons with disabilities, including participation in constitutional amendments that strengthened political representation and supported legal protections for disability rights.
The committee also examined future initiatives designed to increase awareness and promote greater understanding of disability-related issues within communities and institutions.
Training and Awareness at the Core
Among the proposals discussed were specialized training programs and workshops aimed at raising awareness of disability issues and strengthening the capacity of National Council for Women members and branch offices across Egypt’s governorates.
Participants also emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation with other council committees and strategic partners to ensure a coordinated approach to supporting women with disabilities and addressing the challenges they face.
Supporting Egypt’s National Women Empowerment Strategy
Committee members reaffirmed their commitment to the pillars of the National Strategy for the Empowerment of Egyptian Women 2030. Future efforts will focus on economic empowerment, social empowerment, political participation, and protection, ensuring that women with disabilities are fully included in national development plans.
The strategy aims to improve access to education, employment, leadership opportunities, and protection mechanisms while strengthening social inclusion and reducing barriers that limit participation.
Toward Greater Equality and Inclusion
The meeting concluded with a commitment to launch new initiatives, community activities, awareness campaigns, and capacity-building programs designed specifically to support women with disabilities. These efforts seek to improve access to opportunities and services on an equal basis while advancing sustainable development goals and supporting Egypt Vision 2030.
As Egypt continues to prioritize inclusive development, women with disabilities are increasingly being recognized as active contributors to society whose participation is essential to building stronger communities, promoting equality, and creating a more inclusive future for all.
