Women’s Networks Shaping Economic and Social Empowerment in Hadramawt

The war has led to a rise in gender-based violence (GBV),[6] and the deterioration of legal and social protection mechanisms due to political instability and insecurity has had a detrimental impact on women’s access to the public sphere.[7] As a result, more women are turning to both formal and informal networks for advocacy, support, and professional growth,[8] with some of these networks showing. [...] Recounting her experience, Azal Abdullah al-Ariqi, Director of Basma Foundation for Child and Women’s Development and an activist on legal rights for women and children,[26] mentioned several local networks (the Community Peace Authority[27] and Al-Amal Foundation[28]) and informal media-based networking groups (Her Highness[29] and Politics and My Right to Participate[30]) that played a vital rol. [...] This was attributed partly to the socialist legacy in Hadramawt, in addition to the exposure and influence of many families immigrating to Africa and other parts of the world for trade. [...] Conclusion Testimonies of women interviewed for the purpose of this policy brief highlighted the importance of women’s professional groups and networks for Hadrami women’s public participation and access to resources for career advancement and leadership roles. [...] • Use networks for campaigns that raise awareness on the significance of women’s roles in social and economic development in Yemen, and that advocate for policy change and equal working opportunities for women in Hadramawt.