In a strategic effort to bridge the gap between formal and informal economies, GIZ Jordan recently hosted a high-level joint event focusing on the protection and visibility of women in the workforce. Organized by the WoMENA and HIYA MENA projects in collaboration with the Jordan National Forum for Women, the event served as a critical platform for examining the structural barriers that hinder equitable economic participation for women across the Kingdom.
Challenging Conventional Definitions of Work
The dialogue, hosted at the Jordanian Hashemite Fund for Human Development (JOHUD), brought together legal experts, policymakers, and advocates to dissect the complexities of Jordan’s labour landscape. A central theme of the panel was the “invisible” nature of much of the work performed by women, which often falls outside the scope of formal labour protections.
Expert panelists, including Dr. Muhannad Al Qudah, Ms. Asmaa’ Al Na’san, and Dr. Hadeel Boshmaf, highlighted that while legal frameworks for worker rights exist in principle, they are often unevenly realized in practice. The discussion advocated for a shift toward feminist economic approaches that challenge traditional definitions of employment, ensuring that women in all sectors—whether formal or informal—are granted the same level of legal and social security.
Translating Labour Policy Into Inclusive Action
The event underscored a clear priority for Jordan’s development sector: the transition from high-level dialogue to tangible policy reform. By examining the limitations of current labour policies, the participating organizations aim to foster a more inclusive and protective environment for female workers. This includes advocating for broader social safety nets and regulatory adjustments that recognize the diverse roles women play in the national economy.
As Jordan continues to implement economic reforms under its modernization vision, addressing the nuances of the informal economy remains essential for achieving long-term social and economic stability. The collaboration between international development partners like GIZ and local entities like the Jordan National Forum for Women is seen as a vital step in aligning international standards with local realities.
About GIZ Jordan
GIZ Jordan is a leading provider of international cooperation services for sustainable development and international education. Operating on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), GIZ has been active in Jordan for decades, focusing on key areas such as economic development, employment promotion, and water resource management. The organization works closely with the Jordanian government, civil society, and the private sector to develop effective solutions that improve living conditions and provide better economic prospects for the local population.
Source: GIZ Jordan
