The recent Israel-Hamas war has had a profound impact on various sectors of society, and one group that has been particularly affected is Arab female entrepreneurs. Yozmot Atid, an organization dedicated to supporting small business owners, has been successfully running programs aimed at empowering women from diverse backgrounds. However, since the outbreak of the conflict on October 7, these female entrepreneurs have found themselves struggling to survive in an increasingly challenging environment.
The war has brought about numerous economic challenges, making it difficult for businesses to operate and thrive. Arab female entrepreneurs, who were already facing barriers due to societal norms and gender inequality, now find themselves confronting additional obstacles. The destruction caused by the conflict has disrupted supply chains, damaged infrastructure, and led to a decline in consumer demand. These factors, combined with the existing socio-economic disadvantages faced by Arab women, have created a daunting landscape for their entrepreneurial endeavors.
Yozmot Atid’s programs have been instrumental in providing support and resources to Arab female entrepreneurs, helping them overcome the barriers they face. However, the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war has forced the organization to redirect its efforts towards humanitarian aid and emergency relief. As a result, these women are left without the invaluable support they once had, making it even more challenging for them to sustain their businesses and achieve economic independence.
The Israel-Hamas war has had far-reaching consequences, impacting various sectors of society. Arab female entrepreneurs, who were already facing gender-based challenges, now find themselves in an even more precarious position. The absence of crucial support from organizations like Yozmot Atid has left these women struggling to survive in an increasingly difficult economic environment. Efforts must be made to address the specific needs of Arab female entrepreneurs and provide them with the necessary resources and support to rebuild their businesses and livelihoods.
Read more at The Jerusalem Post | JPost.com