Palestinian Minister Mona Khalili Launches Women’s Economic Initiative in Bethlehem

Palestinian Minister of Women’s Affairs Mona Khalili visited the city of Bethlehem to unveil a new economic programme aimed at strengthening women‑run NGOs and small‑scale enterprises. The initiative will provide funding, capacity‑building and technical assistance—including training in digital marketing, e‑commerce and artificial‑intelligence tools—to help Palestinian women increase their market competitiveness and secure sustainable incomes.

Khalili highlighted the heightened economic and social pressures facing women in the West Bank, especially after recent escalations and settlement activity, and stressed the need to shift from emergency relief to long‑term development. The programme is part of a broader effort that also includes projects in Hebron and anticipates international donor financing to expand women’s participation in the labour market and enhance community resilience.