Women E-merging: Using Information Technology for Networking, Advocacy, and Leadership Training in the Middle East

Asma Khader and Mahnaz Afkhami will discuss how women activists in the Middle East are using modern technology to advance their rights in ways that are faster and wider in scope than ever before. 

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) like computers, video, radio, fax machines, mobile telecenters, and CD-ROMs are enabling women in the MENA region to network, organize, educate, campaign, and advocate on issues such as honor crimes, defense of women’s human rights, women’s leadership development, and women’s equal participation in democratic movements and civil society.  They are using ICTs strategically to build strong regional and international networks, to share local strategies for women’s empowerment, and to inform the world community about their priorities and agenda for advancement. 

Local women’s organizations in the Middle East in particular are providing women and girls with skills-training in the use of different technologies, and education tools to maximize their potential for self-advancement and empowerment.