Gaza – June 2023
The Women’s Affairs Center (WAC) in Gaza organized a specialized conference entitled “The Situation of Palestinian Women in the Gaza Strip”, attended by hundreds of representatives from governmental and non-governmental institutions, researchers, academics, journalists, and community activists.
The conference, held in two scientific sessions, featured the presentation and discussion of seven research papers covering legal, political, health, and psychological aspects of women’s lives in Gaza.
In her opening remarks, Amal Syam, WAC Director, stated:
“This conference aims to shed light on the reality of Palestinian women under ongoing Israeli aggression and the blockade imposed on Gaza, which exacerbates economic, social, and political challenges and leads to the deterioration of human rights overall.”
She stressed that gender-based violence is among the most pressing issues facing Palestinian women, noting that one in three married women, or those who were previously married, has experienced at least one form of violence.
Reem Al-Buheisi, WAC Media Coordinator, added that the conference served as an urgent response to assess the situation of women and girls following the latest escalation in Gaza and its severe legal, health, psychological, and social consequences.
First Session
The first session, chaired by lawyer Hala Nabhan, included four papers:
- Women’s Rights between International Conventions and Local Laws: presented by lawyer Hazem Haniyeh from the Independent Commission for Human Rights, highlighting challenges in implementing treaties such as CEDAW.
- Challenges Facing Women in Accessing Justice: by lawyer Suheir Al-Baba, emphasizing the urgent need for a Family Protection Law in Palestine.
- Women in Public and Political Life: by researcher Dr. Mansour Abu Kareem, addressing women’s participation in government, unions, and the labor market.
- Health Conditions of Women and Girls in Gaza: by Dr. Mariam Shaqoura, stressing the need to rehabilitate the health system and promote awareness of reproductive rights.
Second Session
The second session, chaired by lawyer Hanadi Oqaila, featured three papers:
- Impact of the Recent Aggression on Women and Girls: presented by Dr. Khetam Abu Odeh, focusing on the psychological and social aftermath.
- Mental Health of Women and Girls in Gaza: by Ms. Manal Al-Harbawi from the Gaza Community Mental Health Program, highlighting challenges in providing psychosocial support services.
- Digital Blackmail and Its Impact on Gender-Based Violence: by Dr. Mohammad Shobair, addressing the rise of cybercrimes and their effect on women, and calling for stronger digital awareness campaigns.
The conference concluded with a set of recommendations emphasizing the need for comprehensive national strategies, protective legislation, and enhanced empowerment and support programs for women and girls in Gaza.
