ESCWA WEEKLY NEWS No. 64

Technology for Development Bulletin in the Arab Region

ESCWA has recently released its new issue of the Technology for Development Bulletin, a publication that highlights global trends in technology and innovation, and proposes recommendations to leverage the great opportunities brought by technology in the Arab region.

This edition features four key issues: new technologies, technology and inclusion, technology governance and the impact of innovation on the economy. 

The Bulletin concludes with a number of recommendations addressed to policymakers: five years into implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, it has become imperative to formulate national policies and plans to catch up with technological progress and use it in service of the development and welfare of all members of society.

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Integrated Water Resources Management in the Arab Region

Following up on its studies on the status of water resources in Arab countries and the establishment of an integrated Arab water information system, ESCWA has recently issued a new report showcasing the first review of progress made in implementing integrated water resources management in the region. 

The report identifies priority actions that will help accelerate implementation to achieve successful water resources management. It also highlights the key role of water security in ensuring public health, food security, adequate nutrition and rural livelihoods. The report then identifies areas of progress in that regard, and those that need urgent attention in ways that are economically efficient, socially equitable and environmentally sustainable.

The report concludes with a number of findings and recommendations to foster regional dialogue and action to accelerate integrated water management for sustainable development in the region.

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Pilot study in Lebanon on multidimensional inequality

ESCWA recently released a new study that proposes an innovative research approach to capture multidimensional inequalities, based on Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach which defines development as the amplification of people’s opportunities to lead a life they value.

Through field work, the study examines the underlying inequalities experienced by three groups in Lebanon – persons with disabilities, educated youth and vulnerable women. It uses radial diagrams to provide a stark visual representation of the gaps between where people are in their lives and where they want to be.

The innovative aspect of this research lies in the design of a survey that integrates the Central Human Capabilities list with the targets of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10, aimed at reducing inequalities, to identify such capability gaps.

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Intellectual Property for Fostering Innovation in the Arab Region

In today’s technology- and knowledge-driven economy, intellectual property (IP) is of utmost importance. IP policies play a key role in managing research and development and enhancing innovation and entrepreneurship.
ESCWA released a new report that reviews IP laws and practices in some Arab countries and explores the link between IP, innovation, competitiveness, and progress and achievements in the SDGs.

The report proposes recommendations and practical solutions on IP development and management in the Arab region.

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Did you know...

… that violence against women has devastating effects on society as a whole, not just on women and children?

Domestic violence has multiple adverse effects on a woman’s physical, mental and sexual health, impacting on their participation in the labour market and on political and civic activities. It influences the demographics of society and increases the risk of miscarriage and is a cause of death among women.

Photo credit: iStock/Pete Karici

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