HAFED AL-GHWELL

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Arab governments must rise to meet the greatest challenges of our time

Outlet: Arab News

Language: English

Abstract: Governments across the Arab world are facing a multitude of challenges, from the pandemic to regional tensions and socioeconomic disparities. While addressing COVID-19 remains a top priority, the region's most pressing issue is the plight of its youth, fueled by the pandemic's impact on education and employment. With rising unemployment and widespread socioeconomic exclusion, many young people are disengaged from education and labor, posing risks of social unrest and radicalization. The pandemic has intensified existing inequalities, widening the gender gap and creating a generation at risk. Arab governments face constrained budgets and political challenges in addressing these issues, with some countries like Lebanon facing severe crises due to economic mismanagement. Egypt has seen relative success in managing the pandemic while reducing unemployment, but sustaining economic growth remains a challenge. Overall, effective interventions and reforms are needed to address root causes and prevent social instability across the region.

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