Panelists drew attention to the deep cultural and structural challenges that persist, from gender-based violence to the exclusion of women from decision-making. They also highlighted experiences showing how new conceptions of power—rooted in cooperation, mutual support, and moral leadership—can transform relationships at every level of society.
“Power should not be seen as a finite resource that one group holds at the expense of another,” said Hatem El-Hady of the BIC’s Cairo Office. “Rather, it is a collective capacity inherent in all humanity, expressed through service, encouragement, and cooperation.”
Mr. El-Hady added: “A just and flourishing society emerges when individuals, communities, and institutions nurture one another.”
Positive expressions of power include “power within” related to self-worth and confidence, “power to” decide and act, and a sense of “power with” that builds collective strength through collaboration, added Bethel Terefe Gebremedhin, a senior gender expert with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, African Region Office.
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