Let’s not allow this COVID crisis to go to waste

Outlet: Arab News

Language: English

Abstract: The global vaccination effort against COVID-19 marks significant progress with over 2 billion doses administered worldwide, particularly boosted by the White House's pledge to allocate 75 percent of surplus US vaccines to the COVAX program. While this initiative aims to alleviate COVID-19's impact in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, challenges persist post-pandemic, including economic strains, policy failures, and youth unemployment. MENA nations face a looming crisis exacerbated by the pandemic's disruptions, threatening economies, and social stability. However, amidst the crisis lies an opportunity for transformative change. MENA governments can leverage the pandemic's disruption to envision nontraditional solutions, focusing on youth employment, women's empowerment, and economic resilience. Harnessing innovations like remote work, digitalization, and fintech can address longstanding unemployment issues and enhance regional competitiveness. With concerted support from international organizations and civil society, MENA can unlock its youth's potential, build knowledge economies, and adapt to evolving workforce dynamics, ensuring resilience and prosperity in the post-pandemic era.

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