THE SOCIAL ROLE OF WOMEN AND THE DIRECTIONS OF GENDER POLICY DEVELOPMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF THE MIDDLE EAST

Abstract

This article examines the features of gender relations in Middle Eastern countries, as well as changes at the legal, cultural, and institutional levels. Based on data from the UN, the World Bank, and UNESCO, an analysis of statistical indicators was conducted. A comparative analysis covers eight Middle Eastern countries according to data from 2024. Issues of education access, women’s participation in the labor market, and their representation in national parliaments are studied. Special attention is paid to the impact of Saudi Arabia’s «Vision 2030» policy on gender relations, as well as the challenges and changes in this area. The study results show that despite positive changes brought by gender reforms in Middle Eastern countries, additional measures at institutional and social levels are necessary to achieve full equality. Legal and cultural restrictions on gender equality still persist in some countries: male dominance in family law, wage disparities, and insufficient representation of women in leadership positions.