COP24: Event two, Benelux Pavilion: ‘Shared Inclusive Approaches to Sustainable Economic Development in MENA Region: Case of Tunisia’.

Subsequent to the revolution, Gender Concerns international has been active in Tunisia, supporting gender electoral parity, election observation and rural women`s economic inclusion. The recent economic and political transformation in the MENA region requires urgent support and cooperation in meeting the environmental challenges – especially in Tunisia, as a regional role model. The rising level of pollution is alarming and demands inclusive and innovative approaches led by national and local governments in both urban and rural areas. The side event was important in highlighting the increasing investment efforts in the Renewable Energy Sector within the context of Agenda 2030 targets and assessing the scope of setting-up an expert network to raise awareness on sustainable agriculture and environmentally responsible entrepreneurship. Speakers included Mr. Rafik Aini, Ministry of Agriculture Tunisia, Michelle Winthrop, Development Specialist/Climate and Resilience Policy Lead, Government of Ireland, Tracy Kajumba, Regional Senior Climate Change and Development Advisor, Government of Ireland and Dr. Khedija Arfaoui, feminist and scholar, Tunisia. Event was hosted and moderated by direct Sabra Bano.