‘Jobs or Privileges in the Middle East and North Africa’ Debate at AUB

The World Bank Group and HE Husni Al Sawwaf Endowed Chair in Business and Management cordially invite you to a debate at OSB on the topic of: ‘Jobs or Privileges in the Middle East and North Africa’

Background
High unemployment in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, especially among young people and women, has been largely due to the lack of private-sector jobs. Yet, almost every country has pursued policies ostensibly aimed at stimulating the private sector and creating jobs. Recent research shows that these policies instead created monopoly rents to politically connected firms. The monopolies in turn stifled the growth of competitive, labor-intensive enterprises. To stimulate job creation, therefore, MENA countries will have to move from a system of privileges to one where all firms compete on an equal basis.

The discussion on Jobs will bring together policymakers, researchers, business people and civil society members to discuss both the implications of the research and the way forward in addressing the region’s unemployment problems.

For more information or to make a reservation
01.374.374 ext. 3940

Location: Maamari Auditorium, OSB