Hayat Arslan: Changing women’s realities begins with their economic emancipation || Newspapers (Arabic)

In an interview with Al Nahar newspaper about her life and social and political background, Hayat Arslan described the realities and paradoxes in the lives of Lebanese women.  Arslan noted that there are several profiles of Lebanese women notably those with self esteem, others who are subdued or who are superficial.  Arslan added that change can only come through women’s economic emancipation.  When talking about women’s participation in decision making, Arslan confirmed that it was indeed poor because of patriarchal control and mentality as well as women’s reluctance to get involved in politics and the low level of awareness among women as to their “national duties vis-à-vis their country”.

Arslan also talked about her work within her organizations and the implementation of a program aiming to support women economically and which benefited women from both Muslim and Christian communities.  Her current ambition is to set up build a HQ for her association in Aley.  Finally, Arslan pointed out to the work of the handicraft cooperative for which she is responsible and which seeks to market traditional Lebanese women-made crafts in Lebanon and outside.

Original news in Arabic: Annahar