Women in the public sector: 31% of the total pool concentrated in category 4

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the Bassel Fleihan Institute organized last week a round table discussion entitled “in appreciation of the role of women in the public sphere”.  The event was attended by former Minister Wafa Dika Hamzeh, former Director General Niemat Kanaan and General Security Brigadier general Dalal Rahbani.  In her address, Wafa Dika noted that women’s participation in the public sector is mostly concentrated in category 4 posts.  According to her, women are stuck in this glass ceiling because of the lack of political commitment to women’s issue.  She also added that according to the statistics released by CAS, 31% of public sector employees are women whilst 69% are men.  Dika added that the administrative systems are outdated and do not provide opportunities for advancement of women staff thus many leave after getting married or pregnant especially given the absence of child care services which would help working mothers in the public sector.  Niemat Kanaan noted for her part that knowledge and empowerment are key so that women are aware of their rights and responsibilities hence the importance of training so that omen advance in their careers in the public sector.  She also added that the appointment of a handful of women in decision making positions was a mere tokenism as it was done via family connections.  Rahbani spoke of her own experience in General Security which included both administrative and political responsibilities.  She added that women are capable to take critical and difficult responsibilities whilst exercising professionalism and discretion.
Source: Al-Mustaqbal 9 March 2014