The Palestine Capital Market Authority (PCMA) hosted a delegation from the Business and Professional Women Network – Palestine (BPW-Palestine) at its headquarters in Surda, Ramallah to explore cooperation in advancing women’s economic empowerment and promoting financial inclusion.
The meeting was opened by Mr. Ammar Al-Aker, Chairman of the PCMA Board of Directors, who welcomed Dr. Dalal Iriqat, President of BPW-Palestine, along with members of the Network’s Board and professionals specializing in finance, business, technology, and law. He commended their efforts in building a dynamic network that serves as a driving force to enhance the role of Palestinian women as active partners in the country’s economic development.
Mr. Al-Aker emphasized the Authority’s pivotal role in strengthening women’s participation in the financial and economic sectors in Palestine; both through regulatory policies and initiatives aimed at economic empowerment and financial inclusion. He noted that the Authority focuses particularly on addressing the needs of women-owned or women-led small and medium enterprises, helping them access non-banking sources of finance. He added that the PCMA continuously works to overcome barriers limiting women’s participation in the non-banking financial sectors.
BPW-Palestine members highlighted the importance of integrating women into the processes of regulation, development, and oversight across various sectors. They stressed the need to increase women’s representation and participation on boards of directors, committees, and in decision-making positions.
During the meeting, participants discussed mechanisms for collaboration to strengthen women’s engagement in shaping and organizing the financial sector, as well as the importance of expanding financial literacy initiatives targeting women. These initiatives aim to improve women’s access to and effective use of non-banking financial services by empowering them and enhancing their awareness of their financial rights.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to work hand in hand to create an enabling environment that supports women’s full and equal participation in the financial sector through a comprehensive, inclusive, and encouraging framework.