Throughout its year-long activities, EUBAM Rafah has remained dedicated to the empowerment of women working under the umbrella of the General Administration for Borders and Crossings on all border-related issues. This comes as part of the Mission’s efforts to support women in their strive for further social, economic, cultural and political achievements.
An increasing number of women is being constantly inducted and recruited for various roles in the field of Border Security and Customs in order to meet the needs of tens of thousands of passengers who cross the borders run by GABC and to facilitate the day-to-day flow of goods and services that contribute to the economic growth and security in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
The integration of gender perspectives into border management policies, procedures and practices has proven to enhance operational effectiveness of border activities.
On the occasion of the International Women’s Day, EUBAM Rafah reaffirms its commitment to the promotion of gender equality, respect for gender as well as investment in women in the fields of leadership and decision making in border related matters.
The Mission also makes certain this is reflected in its Palestinian counterpart's policies and activities through the provision and implementation of trainings and workshops that encourage an amounting level of participation among women.
As per Gloria Steinem, a world-renowned feminist, journalist, social and political activist, “The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights." EUBAM Rafah indeed cares about human rights and thus plays its part by ensuring the participation of women in all activities held by the Mission. A noticeable increase of female participation in Mission activities has been witnessed since 2015.
The cooperation is ongoing and growing, and EUBAM Rafah will continue to stand side-by-side with the General Administration for Borders and Crossings towards a comprehensive integration of gender parity in the different strategies and daily activities.
