Egypt has made significant strides in advancing women’s rights and participation in the workforce, according to Minister of Labor Hassan Raddad. Speaking at a workshop on social and economic empowerment of women, organized by the National Council for Women in Cairo, the minister highlighted Egypt’s progress as reflected in the World Bank’s Women, Business and the Law 2026 report, where Egypt rose ten positions compared to previous rankings.
The event was attended by key officials including Minister of Justice Mahmoud Helmy El-Sherif, NCW Chairwoman Amal Ammar, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Samar Al-Ahdal, and representatives from the World Bank, including Global Director Robin Mirans and Stephan Gimbert, alongside other experts and stakeholders in women’s empowerment.
Legislative Reforms and Workforce Initiatives
Minister Hassan Raddad emphasized that Egypt’s constitution enshrines citizenship, equality, and non-discrimination, and the country has implemented strategic national plans to politically, socially, and economically empower women. He highlighted reforms in the labor sector that support female employees, including:
- Enhanced maternity leave: Four months paid leave.
- Job security: Protection against termination during pregnancy or maternity leave.
- Workplace childcare: Mandatory daycare for companies with 100+ female employees.
- Flexible working arrangements: To accommodate women’s needs.
- Equal pay and promotion opportunities: Legally enforced to prevent gender discrimination.
The ministry is also preparing a Domestic Workers Law, aimed at formalizing employment, providing protections, and integrating domestic workers into Egypt’s official labor market.
Advancing Gender Equality in Employment
The ministry continues to implement a National Gender Equality Plan in the workplace, targeting:
- Increased female workforce participation.
- Reduction of female unemployment.
- Enhanced training and capacity-building for women.
- Support for women-led entrepreneurship initiatives.
- Creation of safe, inclusive, and equitable work environments.
Minister Hassan Raddad stressed that women’s empowerment and gender equality are cornerstones of sustainable development, requiring coordinated efforts between national authorities and international institutions. He confirmed the ministry’s commitment to collaboration with global partners to expand opportunities for women in Egypt. The World Bank’s 2026 report validates Egypt’s reform trajectory, underscoring the success of government initiatives aimed at creating a more equitable, inclusive labor market and advancing women’s economic participation.
