PSI implemented the SWANA Gender Equality Project with support from Fackförbundet ST (ST) between 2018 and 2024. They brought together almost 40 public sector trade unions across Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine and Tunisia. The project focused on tackling gender inequality and gender-based violence in public services by supporting women’s leadership in unions, improving collective bargaining on gender issues, and pushing for reforms linked to international labour standards.

An independent qualitative evaluation carried out by Jenny Grice and Hind Akil Haidar examined the impact of the project through reports, interviews and discussions with participating trade unionists. The evaluation found that the project achieved its core objectives and created stronger awareness and action around gender equality within affiliated unions. Women trade union leaders and members reported increased confidence, visibility and participation in decision-making spaces.

The evaluation also explored the reasons behind the project’s progress. Trade unions highlighted the importance of long-term organising, regional solidarity, leadership training, peer learning and consistent engagement with affiliates. These approaches helped unions respond to difficult political and social conditions while continuing to build support for women workers and confront workplace discrimination and violence.

The report documents both the challenges and the lessons that emerged during the project. Participating unions pointed to obstacles such as political instability, resistance to change and limited resources, but also identified the factors that helped sustain momentum. Many affiliates expressed a clear intention to continue advancing the work started through the project, particularly around women’s leadership, safer workplaces and stronger gender-responsive union policies.