Cairo: Prime Minister Dr Mostafa Madbouly delivered a speech during the opening session of the conference "Investing in Religious and Media Discourse and Its Impact on Protecting and Promoting Women's Rights in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Member States," attending on behalf of His Excellency Mr Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Republic. Dr Madbouly emphasized the critical role of women's empowerment in driving sustainable growth and enhancing national competitiveness.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Dr Madbouly outlined that women's empowerment has transcended being merely a social issue, emerging as a development and economic necessity. He highlighted that increasing women's participation in the workforce directly contributes to GDP growth, enhances economic productivity, broadens the tax base, and strengthens nations' capacities to address economic challenges. He stressed the collective goal of enabling women to fully contribute to developmental processes, not as a group requiring support, but as a vital force representing half of society.
The Prime Minister noted that successful development requires more than policies and legislation, emphasizing the need for a supportive cultural and social environment. He highlighted the Grand Imam of al-Azhar's assertion that renewing religious and media discourse is essential for building fair social consciousness that values women's roles as equal partners in society.
He urged religious and media institutions to partner in this transformative process, as shifts in awareness often precede legislative changes, giving laws the power to effect real societal impact. He called for media to present women as exemplary figures, emphasizing their productivity and creativity to inspire younger generations.
Dr Madbouly concluded by affirming that support for women in social, economic, and political spheres is now central to public policy in many nations. He pointed to the significant role of women-led small, medium, and micro enterprises in achieving economic independence and job creation.