Youth and women constitute a huge resource as agents for change and the future of each country’s development. They are and can be a source of creativity and innovation, if an enabling environment is provided to facilitate their full participation and engagement. Their role in creating jobs, preventing climate change, addressing community needs or providing mediation services is everywhere demonstrated.
But inclusive development also means looking out for persons with disabilities, who face pervasive inequalities and discriminations in the enjoyment of all their economic and social rights, such as their right to education, employment, social protection or health.
Last but not least, the outbreak of the COVID-19 has further highlighted the need to build stronger regional civil protection services and networks, to better protect citizens in the face of increasing catastrophes. Since 2019, the UfM and the European Commission have worked hand in hand to develop an action plan for strengthened Euro-Mediterranean cooperation on prevention campaigns, emergency response and crisis management.
Build and consolidate a regional common agenda to empower youth and women as main drivers for the region’s development and stability
Promote a Euro-Mediterranean dialogue and cooperation in the field of civil protection, in view of better prevention, preparedness and response in the face of natural and man-made catastrophes
Closing the gender gap in the region could
potentially add 47 percent to the GDP GROWTH
by 2025
Compared to the global average, Europe and the MENA region are below the 6,2% global percentage
of women entrepreneurs who own a business (5.3% and 4.5% respectively).
50% of the population in the south Mediterranean countries is under 25 years old compared to
27.8% in the EU