Egyptian Senator Pushes to Rename ‘Housewife’ as ‘Maker of a Generation’ on National ID Cards

Senator Shireen Sabri of Egypt’s Senate has tabled a parliamentary amendment to replace the occupational label “housewife” (ربة منزل) on national identity cards with the term “maker of a generation” (صانعة جيل). The proposal, presented to the upper house, argues that the new wording more accurately reflects the societal contribution of women who devote themselves to raising children and shaping future generations.

The initiative sparked extensive debate on social media. Supporters say the change would formally recognize mothers’ role in nation‑building, while critics claim it is merely symbolic and question its relevance for women who also work outside the home. Some observers pointed out that a similar terminology was adopted in Dubai earlier this year, leading to accusations that the Egyptian proposal borrowed the idea without attribution. Health professional Dr. Rouhia Mustafa added nuance, noting that the term should also acknowledge women who contribute to society through professions such as teaching and medicine, and that fathers share in child‑rearing responsibilities.

If approved, the amendment would modify the wording on Egyptian ID cards in the next legislative session, aligning official records with the government’s broader agenda of women’s empowerment.