The American University of Beirut (AUB)’s Center for Women in Business at the Suliman S. Olayan Schoolof Business (OSB), in cooperation with the International Labor Organization (ILO) and the Association ofLebanese Industrialists (ALI) have set an event to present the results of a study on women in the Lebaneseindustrial sector. This event comes as part of the first phase of the “Women in Management Initiative” project.This event was aimed at highlighting the pivotal role held by women in driving economic growth andpromoting sustainable development in Lebanon and the region. Additionally, ways to address challengesand obstacles faced in accessing and thriving in industrial environments were also tackled.  According to the Senior Specialist in Employer’s Activities at the ILO, the organization is working alongside  the ALI in order to increase the number of women industrialists and the number of women in board and  management positions. The launching of the Women Taskforce and the awareness campaign stand as  specific efforts to attract more women industrialists to become members of the association.  Additionally, according to the General Manager of ALI, the strategic partnership between the association  and the ILO leads the process of empowering industrial women in Lebanon. This is achieved through thecollective efforts of the Women Taskforce and ensuring its success and influence in the industrial scene.During the event, an explanation of the study, conducted by the Project Manager at ILO, and its findings waspresented. According to surveys conducted in mid-2023 among ALI members, women’s participation in thelabor force stood at 25%, slightly below the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region average (27%). Whenit comes to holding management positions, the representation of women in Lebanon aligns with the globalestimates range of 20-31% with women comprising 27% of managerial roles.  According to the CEO of PandaPlast, the inclusion of women in the manufacturing industry is critical and  offers abundant opportunities. Additionally, efforts must be made to ensure that the industry moves in the  most effective direction. Collaboration with the ILO and ALI is expected to facilitate women’s presence in  decision-making capacities as well as in operational roles while cultivating a competitive environment and  fostering innovative solutions. The involvement of women in these areas could offer unique insights into  market needs and ensures tailored solutions that serve diverse consumer demographics. (ICE BEIRUT)

Fonte notizia: Bank Audi, Lebanon Weekly Monitor, 1 - 7 Apr 2024