Genre et commerce

This publication examines the gender dimension of trade and seeks to identify policy challenges and responses to promote gender equality in light of increasing globalization. Issues discussed include: economics of gender equality, international trade and development; multilateral negotiations on agriculture in developing countries; gender-related issues in the textiles and clothing sectors; international trade in services; gender and the TRIPS Agreement; the impact of WTO rules on gender equality; human rights aspects; fair trade initiatives; the role of IT in promoting gender equality, the Gender Trade Impact Assessment and trade reform.

Agreement between The Republic of Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein, the Kingdom of Norway, the Swiss Confederation (the EFTA States) and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan . The objectives of this Agreement, which is based on trade relations between market economies and on the respect of democratic principles and human rights : -to promote, through the expansion of reciprocal trade, the harmonious development of the economic relations between the EFTA States and Jordan and thus to foster in the EFTA States and in Jordan the advance of economic activity, the improvement of living and employment conditions, and increased productivity and financial stability; - to provide fair conditions of competition for trade between the Parties; - to contribute in this way, by the removal of barriers to trade, to Euro- Mediterranean economic integration and to the harmonious development and expansion of world trade; - to foster the development of balanced economic relations between the parties through co-operation.

This agreement effectively provides a suitable framework for political dialogue. They also serve as a basis for the gradual liberalisation of trade in the Mediterranean area, and set out the conditions for economic, social and cultural cooperation between the EU and Jordan.

This document represents a long-term national vision and strategy rather than a detailed government action plan. It includes more than 400 policies or procedures that should be implemented through a participatory approach between the government, business sector and civil society. It is based on basic principles supporting the development model for the next decade, the compliance with the law and the strengthening of the institutionalization.

This report provides policy makers, financial institutions and entrepreneurial support organizations with new insights into the attitudes, challenges and needs of women business owners and their firms in Jordan. Through face to face interviews and surveys of 444 female business owners representing women businesses in Jordan, the report identifies: Key characteristics of women-owned business enterprises; Their contribution to economic development and job creation; The challenges women face in both managing and growing their businesses; and, Preliminary recommendations for government, policy makers and stakeholders to support women’s entrepreneurship.