Arab Women lag Behind In Digital Literacy

In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, digital literacy is crucial for everyone, from students to professionals and homemakers. Unfortunately, a growing digital divide exists in various parts of the world, particularly in the Arab region, where women continue to lag in acquiring essential technological skills. The digital landscape has become a cornerstone of empowerment, education, and economic development, but Arab women and technology remain at odds in many countries. Despite advancements in education and gender equality, persistent barriers are preventing Arab women from fully participating in the digital revolution.

This article takes a closer look at why Arab women are falling behind in digital literacy, the socio-economic impact of this gap, and what steps can be taken to bridge the divide. We’ll also explore some of the key facts, figures, and initiatives related to this issue to give a complete understanding of how technology can serve as a gateway for Arab women toward empowerment.

Understanding Digital Literacy

Before diving into the specific issues surrounding Arab women, it’s important to clarify what digital literacy entails. Digital literacy goes beyond knowing how to use basic software or browse the internet. It encompasses a range of skills required to participate effectively in today’s digital world, such as:

• The ability to use, understand, and engage with digital content.
• Understanding how to stay safe and secure online.
• The skills needed to create, share, and collaborate using digital platforms.
• Critical thinking about online information and its sources.
• Familiarity with new technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital marketing.

These skills are essential for career advancement, personal growth, and even accessing fundamental services like healthcare, banking, and education, which are increasingly digitized. The ability to navigate the digital world confidently is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity for participating in the modern economy and society. Yet, millions of women across the Arab world find themselves excluded from this digital revolution.

Digital Literacy And Arab Women

According to recent studies, the digital divide is widening in the Arab world, particularly between men and women. Arab women and technology have a complex relationship, as cultural, educational, and economic barriers hinder their progress. While there has been an increase in internet usage across Arab countries, there is still a significant gap between male and female digital engagement.

A 2023 report by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) highlighted that only 45% of Arab women use the internet, compared to 58% of men. This digital gender gap varies across the region, with countries like the UAE and Qatar showing smaller gaps due to more progressive policies, while nations like Yemen and Iraq see wider disparities. The World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report for 2023 further reinforces these findings, revealing that the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region still ranks the lowest in terms of gender equality in digital literacy.

Furthermore, the UNESCO eAtlas of Gender Equality in Education reveals that fewer women are enrolled in higher education programs that focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This education gap perpetuates the cycle of digital illiteracy, as fewer women are prepared for careers in technology-driven fields. As Arab countries aim to diversify their economies and reduce dependence on oil, the technology sector is expected to be a major growth driver. However, without the inclusion of women in this sector, the economic potential of half the population remains untapped.

Arab Women’s Access to Technology

The reasons why Arab women lag in digital literacy are multifaceted, involving both societal norms and structural challenges. Here are some of the key factors:

1. Cultural Norms and Gender Roles

Cultural expectations around gender roles have long dictated that women in many Arab countries prioritize home and family over education and professional development. In some conservative societies, women are discouraged from pursuing education in technology fields or accessing the internet freely due to fear of exposure to “inappropriate” content. In regions where patriarchal systems dominate, the idea that women should not engage with technology persists, which further alienates women from accessing the tools needed for digital literacy.

In some cases, there is also societal resistance to women working in tech-heavy roles, as certain career paths may be viewed as unsuitable for women. This mindset not only limits women’s opportunities but also perpetuates stereotypes that tech careers are solely for men.

2. Limited Access to Educational Resources

Educational institutions in many Arab countries are not equipped to provide the same level of access to technology for women as they do for men. According to a study by UNESCO, many young women in rural areas have limited access to tech-related courses, exacerbating the digital divide. In countries where resources for education are limited, boys are often given priority over girls when it comes to pursuing higher education, particularly in fields like engineering, computer science, and IT.

This lack of access to education also manifests in the types of courses offered. In many parts of the Arab world, educational curricula do not emphasize tech-related skills, which are essential for navigating the digital world. Even in urban areas where schools are better equipped, gender biases in classroom dynamics often discourage girls from pursuing interests in technology.

3. Economic Barriers

In many parts of the Arab world, high levels of poverty make it difficult for women to gain access to digital devices like smartphones and computers, which are essential for developing tech skills. This is especially true in war-torn nations such as Syria and Yemen, where women often bear the brunt of economic hardships. According to the World Bank, Arab women are more likely to live in poverty than their male counterparts, and as a result, they face challenges in accessing not only education but also the basic tools needed for digital learning.

High costs associated with internet access and the purchase of technology can further exacerbate the digital divide. For example, in many countries, the cost of broadband internet remains prohibitively expensive for lower-income households, which disproportionately affects women.

4. Patriarchal Structures in the Workforce

The tech industry in the Arab world remains male-dominated, and women often find it challenging to break into fields like IT or software development. Even when they acquire digital skills, societal structures may limit their opportunities for career growth. A 2019 report by Arab Barometer found that women in Arab countries are significantly underrepresented in the tech sector, with only 8% of the tech workforce being female.

In addition to limited opportunities in the workplace, women also face discrimination and bias when seeking to advance their careers in technology. This can take the form of unequal pay, fewer leadership opportunities, and a lack of mentorship programs tailored for women. As a result, even highly qualified women are often discouraged from pursuing long-term careers in the tech industry.

Impact of the Digital Gender Gap

The consequences of this digital divide are significant, both on an individual and societal level. For women, a lack of digital literacy limits career opportunities, entrepreneurial pursuits, and even access to healthcare and education. For societies, the exclusion of half the population from technological advancements stifles innovation and economic growth.

A report from UN Women found that empowering Arab women through digital skills could add up to $2 trillion to the region’s GDP by 2030. This figure highlights the economic potential that remains untapped due to the digital illiteracy of many Arab women. Countries that fail to address the gender gap in digital literacy risk falling behind in the global economy as the digital age continues to transform industries.

Moreover, digital literacy plays a pivotal role in reducing gender inequality by enabling women to participate in political and social movements. The Arab Spring, for example, saw a surge in women activists who used social media to mobilize, but this participation was limited to women who already had access to digital platforms. Women’s voices, therefore, risk being marginalized in political discourse unless efforts are made to expand access to technology.

Regional Efforts and Initiatives

Fortunately, there are initiatives aimed at bridging the gap and promoting Arab women in technology. Some countries and organizations are taking steps to address the digital gender divide:

• Saudi Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious reform program, Vision 2030, aims to increase women’s participation in the workforce, with a focus on tech and digital skills. The program has already resulted in a significant rise in female employment in the tech sector. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has been expanding access to tech education for women through initiatives like the Digital Government Authority, which promotes e-learning and digital skills development.

• SheCodes

An international initiative, SheCodes, has been offering coding workshops for women in the Arab world. This program helps women learn essential tech skills, from basic programming to advanced software development, in a supportive environment. By partnering with local NGOs and educational institutions, SheCodes aims to reduce the gender gap in digital literacy and empower women to pursue careers in technology.

• The Digital Skills Initiative in Egypt

Launched in collaboration with Google, this initiative aims to teach digital skills to young women across Egypt. It has already trained thousands of women in skills such as coding, digital marketing, and website development. By providing access to free online courses and mentorship programs, the initiative hopes to create a new generation of digitally literate women who can contribute to the Egyptian economy.

• UAE’s Women in Technology Network

In the UAE, women’s involvement in tech has been boosted by networks like Women in Technology, which provide mentorship, training, and networking opportunities for women in the field. The Dubai Women Establishment has also played a significant role in promoting gender equality in technology by organizing conferences, workshops, and networking events for women in tech.

• ICT for Women in Palestine

This program, launched by UNESCO, aims to improve the digital skills of women and youth in Palestine by offering free courses in areas such as web design, digital marketing, and e-commerce. By providing training and access to technology, the program seeks to empower women to start their businesses and contribute to the Palestinian economy.

The Role of Education

Educational reform is essential for empowering Arab women in technology. Governments across the region need to invest in building the digital infrastructure of schools and universities, especially in rural areas where access to technology is most limited. Initiatives like Girls Who Code and Google’s Women Techmakers could serve as models for local programs aimed at young Arab women.

Additionally, online education platforms such as Coursera and edX have the potential to democratize access to tech education, allowing Arab women to acquire skills from the comfort of their homes. Governments should encourage partnerships with these platforms to provide scholarships and incentives for women to enroll in tech-related courses.

Encouraging Tech Careers for Arab Women

A brighter future for Arab women in the digital world is possible, but it requires a collective effort. By addressing the systemic barriers and offering more accessible digital education, the Arab world can empower its women and, in turn, strengthen its economy. Closing the digital gender gap involves tackling educational, economic, and social challenges, but the rewards are significant. Here’s what can be done:

1. Policy Support

Governments should enact policies that support women’s education and participation in technology fields. Countries like the UAE have already made strides by investing in tech education for women, but more needs to be done on a regional scale.

2. Corporate Responsibility

Tech companies operating in the region should take responsibility by offering internships, training programs, and mentorship opportunities for women. Large tech companies like Microsoft, Google, and IBM have already launched initiatives to support women in tech, and local companies should follow suit.

3. Public Awareness Campaigns

Governments and NGOs should raise awareness about the importance of digital literacy for women. Campaigns can emphasize how technology can serve as a tool for social and economic empowerment. For example, public service announcements, workshops, and school programs can promote digital literacy and encourage more women to engage with technology.

4. Affordable Access to Technology

Addressing the economic barriers to technology is crucial. Governments and international organizations must work together to provide affordable access to digital devices and the Internet, particularly in impoverished or rural areas. By subsidizing the cost of internet access and technology, more women will have the opportunity to develop their digital skills.

A Future Where Arab Women Thrive in Technology

The issue of Arab women and technology is more than just a matter of access—it’s about the empowerment of half the population. Digital literacy offers Arab women the opportunity to participate fully in the global economy, contribute to innovation, and elevate their social standing. As the region continues to modernize and embrace technological advancements, Arab women mustn’t be left behind in the digital age. By investing in education, reforming social norms, and providing economic opportunities, the Arab world can ensure that its women are empowered to thrive in the digital future.

For Arab women, technology holds the key to independence, empowerment, and economic opportunity. Bridging the digital divide should not only be seen as a challenge but as a critical step toward achieving gender equality in the region. Through collective efforts, Arab women can become leaders in the digital revolution and shape a better, more inclusive future for all.