UfM leads efforts in gender equality and sustainability in Mediterranean WEFE Nexus discussion

• Collaboration for Inclusive Progress: UfM, CAWTAR, AECID, GWP-Med, and Prima Lead Online Event on Gender Dynamics in the Mediterranean
• Driving Empowerment: Business-Centric Strategies for Gender Equality in the WEFE Nexus
• Insights from the Mediterranean: Key Priorities for Advancing Gender Equality and Resource Management

May 13, 2024. Barcelona, Spain – The Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), in partnership with the Center for Arab Women for Training and Research (CAWTAR), the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), Global Water Partnership-Mediterranean (GWP-Med), and Prima, co-hosted a key online event to explore “Gender Dynamics and the WEFE Nexus” across the Mediterranean. The Water, Energy, Food, and Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus approach underscores sustainable development across these interlinked sectors. This initiative marks a significant step forward in fostering gender equality through a business-centric model to sustainable resource management.

Held under the theme “Focusing on Economic Empowerment through a Business-Centric Approach,” the event served as a platform to further the momentum created at the 5th Mediterranean Water Forum held in Tunis. Over 50 participants gathered to discuss practical strategies for integrating gender considerations into the WEFE Nexus framework, highlighting the transformative impact of women’s empowerment on resource efficiency and sustainable development.

Participants identified four primary priorities to advance gender equality within the WEFE Nexus:

1. Establishing Targeted Mechanisms: Emphasis was placed on creating specific mechanisms for gender equality, notably through business-focused approaches that address unique challenges and opportunities within WEFE sectors.
2. Empowering Women in Resource Management: Recognising women’s role in sustainable resource management, discussions highlighted how empowering women in these roles enhances business operations and resilience within the Nexus.
3. Prioritising Gender in Business Strategy: Participants agreed on the importance of gender equality in business, which drives equitable resource distribution, promotes social justice, and boosts productivity.
4. Translating Ideas into Action: The event underscored the need for converting these discussions into actionable, inclusive policies for sustainable outcomes across the region.

The event underscores UfM’s dedication to fostering a more inclusive and equitable Mediterranean region. These outcomes will also be shared at the 10^th World Water Forum in Bali, Indonesia, where leaders will tackle global water challenges. This represents a unique opportunity to amplify the conversation on gender integration within the WEFE Nexus, promoting collaboration for sustainable development on a global scale.