Egypt Rises 10 Places in World Bank's Women, Business & the Law Report

Egypt has advanced 10 places in the Women, Business and the Law 2026 report issued by the World Bank, with its legal frameworks score rising from 38.75 to 48.50.

According to the Ministry of Labor, the improvement reflects recent legal and policy measures aimed at supporting women’s participation in the labour market.

The update was highlighted during a workshop in Cairo organised by the National Council for Women, where officials outlined reforms aligned with constitutional principles on equality and non-discrimination.

Key changes introduced under Labour Law No. 14 of 2025 include extending maternity leave to four months, prohibiting dismissal during pregnancy or maternity leave, and requiring establishments employing 100 or more women to provide childcare through nurseries.

The law also incorporates flexible work arrangements and affirms equal pay, promotion and training opportunities for men and women.

Authorities said further steps are in progress, including drafting legislation to regulate domestic work and integrate the sector into the formal economy through training and contractual frameworks.

Implementation is also underway for a national plan focused on increasing women’s labour market participation, reducing unemployment and supporting entrepreneurship.

Representatives from the World Bank Group attended the workshop alongside officials and development experts, as coordination continues between national and international bodies on advancing women’s economic inclusion.