Embedding gender considerations in public policies across the MENA region

This chapter examines mechanisms for embedding gender considerations in public policies and laws in the MENA region. It provides an overview of gender mainstreaming practices in the region, including the availability of related strategies, and requirements for gender impact assessments and gender-responsive budgeting. It argues that, by considering regulations and budgets as gender-neutral, policy makers risk potentially making them gender-blind and ignoring different circumstances faced by both men and women. The chapter also emphasises that robust measurement and gender-disaggregated data provide the necessary foundation for evidence-based policies. It shows that, while many MENA countries report measuring the status of women, many data gaps remain. Lastly, the chapter showcases current citizen engagement and public consultation practices in the region, including efforts to involve both men and women facing barriers in the consultation process. In conclusion, the chapter offers good practice examples from OECD and MENA countries, and a set of recommendations that aim to support the governments in the region in implementing gender mainstreaming and gender budgeting.