 Rana Al Turaifi

Manager - Global Initiatives

Safia Alattas

Executive Manager of Operations Department

HRH Princess Lamia Bint Majed Al Saud

Secretary General of Alwaleed Philanthropies

Abeer Alfouti

Executive Manager of Global Initiatives

ريم أبوخيَال

Eng. Najla AlJeaid 

 Executive Manager of Local Initiatives 

Amal Alkathiri

Executive Manager - Local Initiatives

Ideas can change the world, and we share the ones we believe are doing just that. Take a look at our blogs and interviews to see how we think about the issues that matter. 

How We Think

From my coming of age, I have had a personal goal to harness the power of collaboration to build a more sustainable, resilient, tolerant, and united community. To achieve this goal, I came to the realization that this success is dependent considerably on bridging cultures. Beyond geographical spreads, bridging cultures is to rise above personal and professional challenges to provide foundational support systems ultimately. Essentially, it starts and extends with creating shared value formations within and beyond organizations to generate greater societal benefits.


Worldwide, the Cultural and Creative industries are generating $2,250bn annually and creating 30 million jobs, with and approximately $15bn per year being generated in Saudi Arabia at an estimated 13% GDP growth rate. Saudi Arabia’s arts and culture scene is emerging quickly yet steadily.


There are six UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kingdom with 10 more on the tentative list. The 44th session of the World Heritage Committee concluded the Kingdom is home to the highest number of UNESCO Heritage landmarks in the Gulf. The Kingdom’s rich culture is shaped by the diversity of its people, social values and generosity, and Islamic values - all of which are the basis of Saudi Arabia’s cultural identity. We have seen incredible change and growth in Saudi Arabia’s cultural sector – especially with the country’s blueprint, Vision2030, to propel all-encompassing cross-sector infrastructural developments forward. An agile independent arts scene turns into a livelier international attraction by the day. There is a need and interest to share our heritage and values through education, art and culture. From Saudi Arabia’s inaugural participation at the Venice Biennale in 2011 to the debut of the Kingdom’s first Ad-Diriyah Biennale marking Saudi Arabia as a significant player in contemporary art. With infinite pursuit, Saudi Arabia is now home to the world’s first-ever Islamic Arts Biennale - a ground-breaking platform, documenting under-documented histories and welding richly diverse cultures under the theme ‘Awal Bait’ for its inaugural edition.

The importance of bridging culture gaps for the better good

Together, we bridge the gap between cultures and forge the way for global communities to become more open and tolerant. We seek to innovate and foster a new meaning of peace and inclusiveness through education, art and conversational exchange between communities.

Bridging Cultures Together

**Celebrating Unity in Oxford**

Multaka-Oxford, a vibrant community and heritage initiative at the History of Science and Pitt Rivers Museums, has recently garnered attention in the Oxford Mail and Oxford Times for its remarkable role in uniting people through art, culture, and science. This inspiring project, launched in 2021 through a partnership with Alwaleed Philanthropies, History of Science Museum and University of Oxford, has become a beacon of cultural engagement and community cohesion in Oxford.  

**A Hub of Diversity and Inclusion**

At its core, Multaka-Oxford is more than just a volunteer program; it is a dynamic platform that fosters cultural understanding and connection. By utilizing museums as central cultural ‘meeting point,’ the project brings together individuals from various backgrounds, including newly settled families and refugees. These museums serve as stages where diverse groups can engage with the rich tapestry of human heritage.  

To date, Multaka-Oxford has welcomed 14,560 individual visitors through guided museum tours and museum events. The project has also significantly impacted local youth, with 225 school children participating in workshops. This impressive outreach underscores the initiative’s success in creating a shared space where art, culture, and science bridge different communities.  

**Highlighting Cultural Impact**

The recent media coverage in the Oxford Mail and Oxford Times celebrates Multaka-Oxford's success in fostering community connections. The project exemplifies how cultural engagement can unite people, celebrate diversity, and build common ground. In a world that is increasingly interconnected, Multaka-Oxford’s efforts are a testament to the importance of mutual understanding and cultural exchange.  

**Celebrating World Refugee Day: Multaka-Oxford Receives Community Engagement Program Award**

On World Refugee Day, the Multaka-Oxford program in Oxford was honored with the prestigious Community Engagement Program award by the Museums and Heritage Awards in the UK. This initiative aims to support refugees while fostering a deeper understanding between diverse cultures. It is a testament to the power of unity and shared purpose in addressing the challenges faced by displaced individuals, reaffirming the commitment to supporting refugees and advancing cross-cultural dialogue.  

The award recognizes the tireless efforts of everyone involved in Multaka-Oxford and highlights the importance of community engagement in building a more inclusive society.   

**Alwaleed Philanthropies: Promoting Global Dialogue**

Alwaleed Philanthropies, known for its commitment to bridging cultures, plays a crucial role in supporting initiatives like Multaka-Oxford. The organization also spearheads the establishment of Prince Alwaleed Academic Centers at leading universities worldwide, creating platforms for dialogue between Islamic and Western cultures. These centers are vital in fostering meaningful conversations and enhancing global understanding.  

In Oxford, Alwaleed Philanthropies' partnership with the Pitt Rivers Museum and the History of Science has further enriched the city’s cultural landscape. The History of Science Museum’s collection celebrates global advancements in science and technology, while the Pitt Rivers Museum offers a unique perspective on cultural heritage through its diverse collections.  

**Global Impact of Multaka**

Beyond Oxford, Alwaleed Philanthropies is extending its reach with the Multaka project in Berlin, continuing its mission to connect cultures and promote understanding across different regions. These efforts illustrate the organization’s dedication to fostering global dialogue and cultural exchange.  

By supporting initiatives like Multaka-Oxford, Alwaleed Philanthropies is not only promoting cultural understanding but also shaping a world where diverse communities can come together, share their stories, and build a more cohesive global society.  

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Multaka-Oxford: Bridging Cultures Through Art, Culture, and Science  

Considerable undertakings are taking place both in Saudi Arabia and by Saudi Arabian philanthropic entities that are acting as enablers for the next generation of thought leaders and specialist practitioners. 

In conjunction and with a close eye toward shaping better days, today marks the International Day of Peace, also known as #PeaceDay as declared by the UN General Assembly. Beyond a focus on laying down arms, this day addresses key actions in an increasingly inclusive world. As the world embraces cultural differences and challenges deeply-rooted societal structures, it presents an opportunity to take in hand the repercussions of online and offline hate crimes.

Setting the scene in the lead-up to this day earlier this month, the United Nations (UN) International Conference on Women, Peace and Security called for Arab countries to involve more women in conversations and decision-making surrounding peace. Over the years, UN data shows that the growing involvement of women in peace agreements exercises strong influence in negotiations lasting 15 years or more and is 64 percent less likely to fail. 

This year’s theme for the day, “End racism. Build peace.” contributes toward world peace by disintegrating engrained structures of racism, and supporting equality and human rights movements globally. Alwaleed Philanthropies, chaired by HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Al Saud, has long supported this mission. We are driving progress to achieve gender equality opportunities, paving the way toward a better future for the next generation, and supporting a series of empowerment, educational and occupational programs. 

Our work with the Barca Foundation improved the emotional and physical well-being of refugee children in Athens. Our partnerships with the World Scouting Foundation promote volunteering for women and young people, and economic empowerment in Yemen with our partner Education for Employment. As a non-governmental organization, Alwaleed Philanthropies is playing a full part in responding to global humanitarian crises and mitigating life-changing risks. Humanitarian need is growing across the globe, particularly with extreme poverty rates nearly doubling between 2015 and 2018 in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), from 3.8% to 7.2%, spurred by the conflicts in Syria and Yemen. 

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An inflection point for communities online and in the real world

Together, in partnership with other NGO’s, governments, and nonprofits we support and provide global humanitarian assistance that supports development, health, education and infrastructure, through sustainable collaborative solutions.

Developing Communities

**The Impact of "Wayea" 1: From Awareness to Empowerment!**

 "Waeya 1" succeeded in conveying the message of legal awareness and culture, but it did not stop at this achievement. Instead, it provided an opportunity for women in Al-Malaz Prison to experience change and improvement in 2014.
The initiative began with a proactive counseling program targeting various women: employees, students, and business leaders. Its main goal was to provide legal consultations and build awareness foundations in universities and events. It also provided an opportunity for women who had experienced violence to be empowered through diverse courses covering topics ranging from women's rights between Sharia and the law to labor rights in the Saudi system and even issues related to harassment.
However, this was not enough. The initiative turned its focus to women in Al-Malaz Prison after they had served their sentences, with a post-crime program. "Waeya 1" provided legal consultations, took up some cases for the inmates, and assisted in their rehabilitation. Social activities and educational lectures were held in the prison, and a special program was designed for female employees and supervisors in Al-Malaz Prison, clarifying the rights of the inmates, the duties of prison staff, and more.

**"Waeya 2" Towards a More Legally Aware Society**

"Waeya 2" has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to disseminating legal knowledge and making it accessible to various segments of society through " Waeya 2" in 2015.
As part of this initiative, a diverse range of training courses and legal programs with specific objectives were offered. Proactive counseling was directed towards universities, endowments, and charitable institutions through the provision of various training courses, contributing to the enhancement of legal awareness among young people.
Furthermore, a dedicated program was designed for businesswomen, featuring lectures and workshops that covered multiple issues, including proactive crime prevention and project management.
In addition to providing free legal consultations to those in need, legal support was offered in institutions under the Ministry of Social Affairs, such as shelters and girls' care institutions.

**"Waeya 3" - A Journey of Excellence in Legal Service and Empowerment!**

"Waeya 3" initiative reflects a success story as it adopted a variety of issues and provided diverse legal consultations during the years 2016-2017:
Focus was placed on a range of urgent issues, from personal status matters to cybercrimes, extortion, and public opinion cases.
Around 1,200 legal consultations were provided, covering a wide range of legal issues. These included matters related to personal status, financial systems, surveillance, guardianship, inheritance, and many others.
A training and qualification program was designed to develop the theoretical and practical skills of participants, benefiting 18 trainees in 2016 and 50 trainees in 2017.
Programs were also conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Affairs, involving visits to girls' care institutions and prisons, as well as hosting inmates from shelters to provide psychological and social support in 2016.
In 2017, "Waeya 3" collaborated with the Ministry of Social Affairs through awareness and training programs in various universities, including Mohammed bin Fahd University, King Saud University, Princess Nourah University, Prince Sultan University, and Dar Al Uloom University, in addition to care institutions. These programs included explanations of Saudi laws and diverse issues aimed at enhancing legal awareness among participants.

**"Waeya 4" Advances on its Sustainable Path to Legal Empowerment of Women through "Waeya" mobile application!**

"Waeya 4" has undertaken several prominent projects, championed important issues, and provided legal consultations. The proactive awareness-counseling program delivered lectures and training workshops at universities, offering legal consultations to university staff and students, including King Saud University, Princess Nourah University, and Prince Sultan University in 2018.
Furthermore, the initiative continued its efforts in educating the inmates of shelters and girls' care institutions and worked to spread these awareness programs in multiple regions of the Kingdom.
Dedicated to its goal of providing legal assistance, "Waeya 4" received as many legal consultations as possible and carefully addressed 70 cases.
To enhance legal capabilities, "Waeya 4" provided training and qualification for two hundred legal professionals in practical and scientific training.
Finally, " Waeya 4" launched a mobile application aimed at promoting legal awareness and offering free consultation services to users.

**"Waeya 5" Proves Its Strength in Achieving Legal Awareness and Making an Effective Contribution to Women's Empowerment and Community Development**

In 2019, the "Waeya 5" initiative continued its remarkable journey in spreading legal awareness and culture.
"Waeya 5" delivered inspiring awareness lectures in various places, addressing important topics related to the legal systems in the Kingdom. Many institutions and universities benefited from these lectures, with 570 participants.
"Waeya 5" continued to provide legal consultations through a specialized team of consultants and lawyers, offering more than 2,300 consultations in various fields.
The initiative also handled 30 diverse cases, contributing to the provision of justice and assistance in important issues.
"Waeya 5" worked on a training program at Dar Al Uloom University, providing an opportunity for 50 trainees, who were law and Sharia graduates, with both theoretical and practical guidance on the concept of advocacy and the use of electronic services provided by the Ministry of Justice.

**"Waeya 6" - A Story of Excellence and Development in the Time of the Pandemic**

The year 2021 was an exceptional year due to the challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, t "Waeya 6" initiative continued to pursue its objectives and develop its programs.
In collaboration with the Human Rights Commission and the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, "Waeya 6" initiative provided remote legal training programs for female lawyers and attorneys across the Kingdom. Over 205 trainees benefited from these programs, enhancing their skills and legal knowledge.
"Waeya 6" initiative persisted in offering legal consultations through its application, contributing to the resolution of legal cases and issues faced by women.
To support 200 cases related to violence, harm, and other matters. It provided the necessary legal support to protect women's rights and assist in achieving justice. Additionally, it offered legal support to more than 150 other beneficiaries, positively influencing their lives.
To provide its services more effectively to women, "Waeya 6" continued to use its electronic application, allowing users to receive free legal consultations and expand legal awareness.

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Learn about "Waeya” a story of transformation and empowerment where it has built legal awareness and empowered women over the years

Together, we pursue equal opportunities for women and youth by providing them with platforms that ensure their participation and activate their roles in societies, the change we seek is global and measurable.

Women & Youth Empowerment

In the dynamic realm of philanthropy, innovation stands as a pivotal force, driving transformative change by challenging conventions and fostering progress. Now more than ever, as the world tackles complex and interconnected challenges, the need for innovative solutions in philanthropy has become increasingly evident. In this context, we delve deeply into two pioneering initiatives that reflect this innovative approach, illustrating how creative thinking and technological advancement can lead to effective and tangible results.

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The Role of Philanthropy in Cultivating Innovation

As we mark the International Day of Forests, let us recognize the silent guards that are our planet's forests. These supports of biodiversity and natural heritage are hovering on the edge, facing threats from human encroachment and climate instability. 




**The Imperative for Conservation**

Deforestation is a relentless force, eroding our forests. This destruction is not just about losing trees—it is about the breakdown of ecosystems, the silencing of countless species, and the destruction of crucial carbon reservoirs. The effects are felt worldwide, influencing climate, water resources, and the air we rely on. The United Nations has identified deforestation as the source of up to 20% of global greenhouse gas emissions annually, underscoring the need for prompt action. 



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Atlai - The first AI deforestation reporter

Innovating for the Forests: Charting a New Course against Deforestation

Together, we work to build environmentally conscious communities, promote better resource management, and clean energy technologies. We collaborate with community organizations, NGOs, governments, and change-makers to create a cleaner and greener environment for all.

Supporting a Healthier Environment

**By: HRH Princess Lamia Bint Majed Saud AlSaud, Secretary General of Alwaleed Philanthropies and** 

**Ahmad Alhendawi, Secretary General of World Organization of the Scouts Movement**


Volunteers are an essential element of vibrant societies that support and strengthen communities from the ground up. In Saudi Arabia, nearly half a million people last year donated their time and skills towards community service - providing safety nets for vulnerable groups and addressing global challenges like climate change, access to education, and the promotion of gender equality. The multiplier effect of these volunteer contributions has been immense with more than 42 million people in the Kingdom benefiting from the dedication of often unsung heroes.

As we continue to drive impact beyond times of crisis, the leadership, inspiration and passion of volunteers are needed more than ever to strengthen the fabric of civil society. Volunteers have an integral role to play in achieving Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which is enhancing social development and community service. Collectively building on our long track record of social good, Alwaleed Philanthropies and World Scouting are committed to this cause by providing meaningful opportunities for volunteers to engage as active global citizens in making their communities better places to live, work and recreate.

This great work and collaboration are resulting in extraordinary impact. Together, we are working closely with the National Scout Organization of Saudi Arabia to connect volunteering programmes within Saudi Arabian universities. As a result, we engage more young people and volunteers in education for sustainable development. Among the activities is a project with Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, and King Khalid University to empower the next generation of volunteer leaders through Scouting. The project aims to involve 500 Rover Scouts and impact 100,000 young individuals, and more universities are expected to take part in the near future. The success of this initiative is providing inspiration elsewhere, with the Ministry of Education currently looking to add volunteering to the country’s secondary school curriculum, and universities now requiring students to volunteer a specific number of hours as a graduation requirement.

With the popularity of volunteerism increasing across the Kingdom, so too has the number of Scout volunteers which has seen a 47% rise in less than a decade. Similar trends are being echoed thanks in part to the Scouts for SDGs initiative which is being championed by Alwaleed Philanthropies with a focus on the Arab and Africa Scout Regions. This initiative encourages young people in the Kingdom and the rest of the world to lead service actions and projects in response to specific local issues facing their communities. Through this endeavor at least 200 capacity-strengthening projects are being supported at the national and local levels in the Arab and Africa Scout Regions – ensuring that more young people are engaged in taking action for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 



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Capacity-strengthening projects proliferate Saudi Arabia's volunteerism by 47% in less than a decade

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An interview with our Secretary General HRH Princess Lamia Bint Majed AlSaud and Head of Girl Scouts Committee KSA HH Princess Sama Bint Faisal AlSaud on International Volunteer Day.

Domestic violence is a public health problem. To discuss domestic violence as a central topic means we need to increasingly spread awareness around providing legal advice and making judicial services more accessible. 

As reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), one in three women worldwide experiences physical or sexual violence mostly by an intimate partner. The outcomes lead to health injuries and traumas, with 42% of women reporting injuries. Some, sadly have fatal outcomes like homicide or suicide. 

Over the years, an infrastructure has been created to recognize legal rights, improve the quality of life for women, and support victims of domestic abuse across Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom cracked down on abuse against women with penalties including imprisonment and hefty fines because there is no acceptance of it in the country. From social protection units, shelters, and sister organizations, to Kingdom wide campaigns – starting with the "No More Abuse" ad campaign in 2013 in parallel to pending legislation to criminalize domestic abuse at the time. Building on that, Alwaleed Philanthropies’ Waeya initiative was launched in 2015 to support Saudi women to face domestic violence in accordance with women’s rights. With more than 42,200 beneficiaries to legally empower Saudi women and focus on training and qualifying Saudi female lawyers in partnership with Mawadda Association (during the first year of the project) and Faisal Al-Tayea law firm.

Charging interventions in low and high-resource environments is critically important. Alwaleed Philanthropies makes every possible effort to empower women. We have adopted a number of cases for women, violence and cybercrimes under the Waeya initiative - one of the first of its kind in the kingdom at the time. Before the coronavirus pandemic in early 2020, 243 million women and girls, aged 15-49 around the world experienced sexual and/or physical violence by an intimate partner. Ever since, violence against women, especially domestic violence has unfortunately intensified. The most important achievements of the Waeya project for 2021 entailed supporting and representing battered women before the judiciary and competent authorities such as the police and attending the investigation and follow-up of their cases. We successfully provided free legal advice through the Waeya application, trained more than 500 jurists in collaboration with the Human Rights Commission and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, worked on more than 350 cases and provided legal consultation training to 200 beneficiaries. 



The importance of legal awareness around domestic violence

The metaverse is here and we must be prepared for what transpires. About 18 years ago, Facebook launched and, by 2020, more than 90,000 nonprofits were registered on the platform. Today, the metaverse raises the question: where will philanthropic organizations be 18 years from now?

It is no secret that the majority of the world’s population resorts to social media for news, advertisements, connecting with family and community, volunteering, and more. By 2032, the metaverse is predicted to add $360 billion to the economy in the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey. In parallel, Saudi Arabia’s futuristic city, NEOM, will have a digital twin in the metaverse before it is physically built, allowing us to understand people cognitively through virtual reality. The way I see it, that is one more tool to add to our resources.

This relatively new tool celebrates and champions change — the very lifeblood of tolerance and acceptance. On Wednesday, the International Day for Tolerance, Alwaleed Philanthropies is launching in the metaverse via Decentraland, the world’s largest user-owned and operated metaverse platform, to continue delivering on its mandate to bridge culture gaps.

UNESCO's 1995 Declaration of Principles on Tolerance states: “Tolerance is respect, acceptance and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world’s cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human.” We want to increasingly appeal to the next generation of thought leaders, cultural leaders and policymakers, who will drive day-to-day change and “defend and promote cultural and linguistic diversity,” as Audrey Azoulay, director general of UNESCO, put it.

Using the metaverse to further enable tolerance

Heritage is integral to a nation’s identity. It instils pride among its citizens, serves as a moral compass, and is the history that we pass on to future generations.

In recent years, we have also seen the power of heritage preservation in meeting social and economic goals.

It comes as no surprise that governments are taking a more active role in heritage preservation; to boost tourism, create jobs and diversify the skill set of their population. One example is the preservation of AlUla.

Globally recognised as a pillar of Saudi history, it attracts tourists and boosts the country’s economy. Interestingly, we have also seen heritage play a role in overcoming environmental challenges.

According to the Saudi 2030 vision, culture is indispensable to the quality of life. The government is pivoting the country to a modern and sustainable future while preserving its heritage. The Kingdom aims to increase both the quality and quantity of its cultural activities.

Alwaleed Philanthropies has long understood the role of heritage and cultural preservation in meeting the goals set out in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

Specifically, how supporting cultural projects can potentially diversify the economy, stimulate job creation, and ultimately raise the quality of life for all citizens.

It’s important that we understand heritage is not simply defined. Projects scale from the work of individuals and large-scale development projects. Both micro- and macro- projects have a huge impact on national development.

For example, we strongly believe in the wider impact of empowering Saudi female artisans. The history of traditional craftsmanship is rooted in sustainable production.

These traditional methods of craftsmanship, born across different parts of Saudi Arabia, tell the story of the diverse traditions across the Kingdom.

These traditional art forms have a unique position in supporting the creative economy, which benefits from more artisans in the job market, commercialisation of creative products and the upskilling of the next generation.

As part of our partnership with Turquoise Mountain, we focused on preserving traditional art forms, providing creative outlets for women and creating more avenues to sustain a living through traditional crafts.

Recently, we launched production workshops at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, where we support female artisans by providing training in craft production resulting in a sustainable income. Women play a crucial role as cultural gatekeepers keeping the tradition of Saudi alive through their artform.

Women play a crucial role as cultural gatekeepers keeping the tradition of Saudi alive through their artform To truly meet the goals set out in Vision 2030, we cannot underestimate the importance of collaboration. Philanthropies and the humanitarian sector can play an important role in creating the bridge required between skills, resources, governments, and the community.

Saudi Arabia has become the first Arab country to establish a dedicated preservation society and has seen greater collaborative efforts between NGOs, government organisations, and the civil society.

Collaboration is vital for meaningful and sustainable change. In March 2022, we signed a partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Culture to collaborate in enhancing the Kingdom’s cultural sector.

We cannot operate in isolation. In an increasingly interconnected world, we have also seen the potential of heritage projects to have multiple benefits for society, the environment and the economy.

One of our recent projects, we partnered with the Aseer Development Authority (ASDA) to develop the Qimam and Shem area. The focus is to revive the local buildings, with a special focus on the sustainable methods used. We understand that we cannot ignore the needs of our environment in our projects.

Social development cannot be divorced from economic and environmental prosperity. The positive impact of heritage conservation on climate change has started to reflect in the capital city of Riyadh where the government has invested in cultural heritage restoration and the city’s infrastructure.

Globally, governments are aligning their international development work with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, empowering key stakeholders from the private sector, philanthropies, and citizens to work together.

It’s only through collaboration, creativity and cross-cultural understanding, that we can continue to make strides in meeting the goals set out by Vision 2030.


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How can heritage preservation support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals?

“International Women’s Day: In order for us to have a more sustainable future, we must first empower women to enable them to become positive change-makers in society.”

As the world heals from the pandemic, global economic recovery efforts have brought to life how the most vulnerable individuals in society continue to be left behind. Women and children make up the majority of the world’s poorest and are, as a result, increasingly recognized as more vulnerable to climate change impacts than men are. In order for our recovery plans to develop a more resilient and equal world, it is crucial that women become just as involved in the collective action leading to a more sustainable world as men are. To do this, we must recognize the crucial role that women can play in developing a sustainable economy and society, empowering them as change-makers.

In developing countries, more than half of urban women and girls lack clean water and sanitation, durable housing or sufficient living areas. The pandemic has amplified these challenges and will have no resolution without immediate change. Current estimates indicate that by 2030, 700 million girls will live in urban areas.

Women are starting to have good employment opportunities in cities, yet they still earn less than men. Therefore, they remain among the highest levels of poverty and urban marginalization. With the world changing so drastically, we have the unique opportunity to shape the future with an inclusive and equal social and economic response that supports women and youth across the world.

Through the lens of economic and social change, we must look towards creative empowerment for women by putting change and opportunities in their hands. In Saudi Arabia, since 2018, private sector companies, in alignment with the government’s efforts to empower women, have supported over three-hundred women by providing them with free cars, allowing them to enter the workforce as Careem Captainahs.

For our future cities to be sustainable, policy makers and the development community must understand the gender impacts of rural-urban migration, slum growth and rapid urbanization. In continuing to underestimate the significance of women and youth in our economic system, we not only impede recovery but also hinder our system’s preparedness for future crisis.

The work of Alwaleed Philanthropies with UN-Habitat embodies this challenge, empowering women and promoting gender equality as a crucial step in accelerating sustainable development. Our post-pandemic activity continues to comprise emergency response initiatives tackling areas of urgent need and considers long-term mitigation measures.

Over 40 years, we, as Alwaleed Philanthropies, have supported over 1,000 projects across 189 countries, and have first-hand seen the dramatic impact of COVID-19 on the lives of women and youth in the most vulnerable areas of the world.

In 2020, as part of Alwaleed Philanthropy’s response to the pandemic, we allocated part of our USD 30 million funding to UN-Habitat, aiming to help provide some of the most vulnerable people across the Middle East with access to basic needs.

Alongside UN-Habitat, we are also helping to provide safe and secure housing and job opportunities in Iraq and Yemen, where many women and youth have been left displaced as the result of recent conflicts. These new communities are being built with equality in mind as we create a strong foundation that will allow a sustainable future to flourish. This is done partly through assuring good housing and access to basic services, such as the rehabilitation of sixty damaged houses in Iraq and connecting 218 houses to the water network.

The challenges we see across the world, both in developed and developing nations, have increased drastically in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, yet the response has shown our ability to bring together communities and act to change.

However, to reach our ability and goals for sustainable development, we must understand its close ties with gender equality and the need to tackle both jointly. Those who are among the most vulnerable and marginalized experience the deepest impacts, and their involvement in decision-making and engagement is pivotal to creating an enduring recovery plan that balances the disparities seen in current economic security efforts which lack of their contribution.

It is through Alwaleed Philanthropies and UN-Habitat’s work that we are contributing to bridging this gap and empowering women and youth to build a sustainable future.


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Message from Princess Lamia AlSaud, UN-Habitat Goodwill Ambassador for Arab States and Secretary General of Alwaleed Philanthropies

The last two years have cast a critical eye on the importance of volunteerism. Volunteering makes a significant contribution to meeting societal needs. It creates a sense of pride and unity, from supporting vulnerable communities to providing vital health supplies.

Understanding this, volunteering should not only be seen as a grassroots movement. It should be especially championed during challenging times. Volunteering makes a vital contribution to the economy and builds a safer, unified society. This, in turn, promotes civic engagement resulting in the socio-economic growth of a nation.

Youth have a particularly vital role in leveraging volunteer programs to shape a better future.

Globally, there are currently 1.8 billion people between the ages of 10-24, the largest youth generation in history. A recent global study, commissioned by the United Nation’s children’s agency partner UNICEF, highlighted that 39 per cent of youth surveyed identified most with being global citizens. The survey also found that while youth acknowledged global challenges, they felt optimistic about the future. Connected to each other like never before, young people want to and are already contributing to the resilience of their communities, proposing innovative solutions and driving social progress.

Volunteers are agents of change, mobilizing the advancement of sustainable development goals (SDGs), improving the lives of people and the health of our planet.

Formalized volunteer programs provide a powerful means to engage people to contribute to national and global agendas. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development explicitly recognizes volunteer groups as instrumental in achieving the SDGs. We have long acknowledged that the SDGs cannot be met without working with people from all corners of the world, bringing their diverse knowledge and understanding to create a better future. Volunteer programs provide the opportunity for youth to be part of the solution to the most pressing challenges facing our planet while also developing 21st century skills.

One of the objectives of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is to have one million male and female volunteers by the end of the decade. To date, the number of volunteers has increased from 23,000 in 2015 to more than 409,000 volunteers, exceeding the 2020 target of 300,000 volunteers. Harnessing the desire to do better, the next generation must be encouraged and offered opportunities to improve their communities.

Saudi women, in particular, have a crucial role to play in the development of the kingdom and the wider region. Empowering women and youth through volunteer programs can inspire other women, particularly young girls, to play an active role in societal regeneration and drive environmental and economic progress worldwide.

We genuinely believe that volunteerism is a catalyst to engage people in national planning and implement the SDGs, laying a fertile ground for creating a space that allows people and communities to participate in their own progress.

Allowing volunteers to gain a sense of ownership in their own society brings communities closer together and leads to collective volunteer action, paving the way for local solutions to local challenges.

Furthermore, volunteerism provides greater access to diverse skills which ultimately benefit individual and country. Working with people from different backgrounds, youth are afforded the opportunity to build confidence as well as learn new technical and communication skills. This will ultimately prepare them to join the workforce, as well as shape their own future, instilling in them a desire to work for the betterment of their local community.

We embrace the responsibility to inspire the next generation by inviting them to engage with real-world issues. The onus lies with volunteer organizations to connect governments with essential voluntary action. The catalytic effect is one that ensures people are at the heart of progress. We thank volunteers across the world for their contributions, and strongly urge organizations to encourage volunteerism, beyond the walls of schools and corporate offices.

Together, we must volunteer now for our common future.

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The role of volunteerism in meeting national government agendas

This year, World Humanitarian Day has placed a spotlight on the immediate human cost of the climate crisis. Much attention has been given to the devastating floods across Europe and heatwaves in North America and the Mediterranean region. But the impact of climate change continues to be overlooked in countries across Africa, where due to a changing climate, bigger challenges lie such as ensuring food security.

In March, the Food and Agriculture Organisation released a report highlighting extreme weather disasters leading to an agri-related losses of about $30 billion in sub-Saharan Africa and North Africa between 2008 and 2018. With heavy reliance on rain-fed farming, small-holder farmers in sub-Sahara face unstable outcomes and uncertain futures. Drought is the single-greatest cause of agricultural production failure, with more than 34 per cent of production loss being attributed to prolonged shortages in water supply. Changing rainfall patterns and higher temperatures have forced farmers to shorten the growing season. As droughts and floods occur with increasing frequency, food supply and income become insecure.

The pandemic has further undermined food security for the most vulnerable populations. In 2020, the UN's annual “State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World” study said an estimated 132 million people could go hungry, with hunger spreading fastest in Africa.

The pandemic, meanwhile, has also affected the lives and livelihoods of young people – particularly their access to resources and economic independence – with many being forced to agree to precarious job conditions that provide them with inadequate social protection. Covid-19’s impact raised the global unemployment rate among youth from about 13.5 per cent to 14.6 per cent in 2020, according to the International Labour Organisation. And so, as we move towards a post-pandemic world, we must place tools and opportunities in the hands of young men and women who need them most, so that they can become a driving force for – among other things – the transformation of food systems in Africa.

Indeed, there is hope both in today’s youth and in the harnessing of simple innovations and technology. Youngsters around the world are finding creative answers to the challenges that will define the future of our economy, environment and society. But they need support to reach their full potential.

Through facilitating the entry of young people into the economy and creating avenues of economic independence, humanitarian action can help tackle food insecurity and pave the way for a sustainable and productive global market. Youth empowerment can and will help manage the detrimental effects of climate change, all the while maintaining food security and paving the way for economic development.

Entrepreneurship can be one of the vehicles for sustainable change. Youth and vulnerable populations are often most in tune with the social, cultural and economic needs of their communities. They are also aware of the impact of climate change and the repercussions of what we do on our planet. They are best-placed to tackle and build future food systems that are in harmony with the climate.

One common challenge is the access to resources, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic. This is where global humanitarian organisations are making a difference. Over the past 40 years, Alwaleed Philanthropies has championed youth empowerment and entrepreneurship to address humanitarian crises with a collaborative approach. Harnessing the youth’s energy and entrepreneurial spirit, the foundation is currently working with KickStart International to provide young farmers in Malawi, Mozambique and Nigeria with innovative tools and workable technologies to help improve food security. This includes helping young farmers to find innovative ways, including irrigation, to build greater resilience in agricultural production.

Irrigation pumps allow farmers to plant and harvest multiple cycles of high-value crops throughout the year, independent of the rains. Young farmers can save their rain-fed crops when the rains fail and replant quickly after floods or plagues of locusts. By selling crops in the dry ”hungry seasons” when food is scarce and prices are high, small holders can transform their farms into highly profitable family businesses, increasing farm incomes by up to 400 per cent, and allowing them to invest in education, health care and their futures.

To date, KickStart – with the help of Alwaleed Philanthropies and other partners – has delivered more than 350,000 irrigation pumps to low-income subsistence farmers that has led to the creation of 270,000 agro-enterprises, effectively transforming lives, and bringing 1.4 million men, women and children out of poverty while empowering young farmers who face structural exclusions in the sector.

But more can be done.

With the world rapidly changing, we have a unique opportunity to shape the future with social and economic solutions to empower youth across the world. We can contribute to a diversified economy and bring new products and methods to the market, and generate job opportunities. Governments across the world must place youth skills development at the heart of their recovery plans. Equally, organisations across the globe must collaborate to support a thriving environment for the young leaders of tomorrow.

Ultimately, global recovery relies on standing in solidarity with the world's most vulnerable people.

On the occasion of World Humanitarian Day, I call on every young man and woman to be inspired by the drive and ambition of the aforementioned communities and harness their own global outlooks to address climate change, tackle food insecurity and support the creation of a more humane world.

Bringing youth empowerment and food security together in Africa 

*Art is central, not peripheral, to social change. While the past year has brought with it an array of challenges, creatives across the world have found inspiration in the most difficult times.*

The UN marked 2021 as the International Year of the Creative Economy for Sustainable Development with the creative economy considered instrumental to achieving global recovery. With multifaceted impact, creativity plays a pivotal role in facilitating positive transformation and has the power to shape our future; whether social, cultural, or economic.

Art, in all of its forms, enhances cultural understanding while addressing social issues, increasing economic opportunities, and contributing to a more tolerant, prosperous world. Today, on the occasion of World Art Day, we celebrate art as a veritable catalyst for social action, one that continues to facilitate local action and broader social change.

In addition to establishing cross-cultural dialogue, art allows us to understand our place within society, to have our feelings expressed through the language of a writer, or the movement of an Ardah dancer, or the music of a composer. As a society, art gives us the ability to understand our past and imagine the future. Throughout history, we have seen artists and activists work hand in hand. We have seen art inspire and elevate, and hold movements for change. Art has the power to bring us together and help us bridge divide. By creating more understanding and empathy, together we can build a just society.

Philanthropy and the humanitarian sector have an important role to play in promoting the arts and therefore, bridging cross-cultural barriers. At Alwaleed Philanthropies, we understand the important role that the creative industries play in meeting the sustainable development agenda. We support the creative economy as we see it as a veritable path towards strengthening economic development. The arts have paved the way for equal job opportunities, bridged the gender gap, stimulated innovation, contributed to cultural diversity and supported entrepreneurship. We recognize the importance of art in building cross-cultural understanding and supporting women, youth, and vulnerable communities, near and far.

Our foundation has a history of supporting creativity, from empowering artisans on ground to partnering with global art institutions to nurture cross-cultural understanding.

We believe that art inspires feeling and emotion while providing a window through which people can explore different perspectives. Through our partnership with the Louvre Museum in Paris and the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, we have built Islamic Learning Centres and donated US $26 million to provide that window. We enable people to peer into the deep history and culture of the Islamic world, a realm that has been historically overlooked.

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World Art Day: HRH Princess Lamia on How Art Contributes to Tackling Social Challenges

In an exclusive column for Arabian Business, Princess Lamia bint Majid AlSaud, Secretary General at Alwaleed Philanthropies, explains why there has never been a more significant time than the Covid-19 pandemic to support displaced people.

There has never been a more significant time to reaffirm the importance of economic opportunities for refugees and displaced people. The pandemic has illuminated the importance of economic vitality for the social and economic health of all in society; as we create our ‘new normal’ we must ask ourselves – how do we build a society to lift up those in need?

For refugees and displaced people, there have been few reports on the chaos the pandemic has caused. This is largely because of low access to healthcare or testing facilities, while overcrowded housing has placed many people at risk of illness. Additionally, loss of employment has been rife across the world, but has a particularly detrimental impact on vulnerable communities. A recent survey by the Danish Refugee Council showed that 3% of Syrian refugee households in Jordan currently have one employed family member, compared with the 65% before the pandemic. It is estimated these figures are representative of many refugee communities. With vulnerable communities unable to access adequate job opportunities, we risk pushing people into further poverty, as well as negatively impacting economies.  

We cannot underplay the multitude of benefits that economic opportunities for vulnerable communities has on the individual, communities and host countries. Through access to labour markets, finance, and resources, there is an increase in self-reliance, resilience and autonomy amongst refugees and displaced people. In turn, this reduces the dependency on humanitarian aid and assistance while developing further social integration. Ultimately this benefits everyone. For refugees and displaced people, they are able to gain greater financial independence, as well as increased access to services and the protection of their emotional wellbeing. For economies, they benefit through job creation, trade and increased spending. 

Refugees and displaced people across the world have showcased their creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit through the growth of small enterprises, from launching blockchain in refugee camps to opening boutique cafes across Europe. Through these avenues, we have witnessed greater cultural understanding across the world, as many of the entrepreneurs have infused their heritage in the work they do; from the food they make to the history of embroidery on clothing they sell. I strongly believe that engaging with other cultures and beliefs is a vital tool to create a truly collaborative and prosperous world. 

We know this first-hand, through our partnership with Turquoise Mountain, where we have harnessed the creative power of displaced women in Afghanistan and Myanmar, to provide tools and support to create products that reflect their heritage. Importantly, we also assist in selling these items to empower women through increased economic independence. For example, in Myanmar, there are few job opportunities for displaced women, however, through their creative skills and passion, we were able to work with them to commission orders. For example, two of the artisans who are part of ‘Entrepreneurs of Watch 2020’ by Turquoise Mountain, Ma Htwe Htwe Soe and Daw Sein Phyu Khine, were unemployed and struggling to find work after escaping conflict. Using their skills and passion for weaving they have been able to maintain a sustainable livelihood, even during the pandemic by working from home. Currently, they are working on creating traditional silk products for a five-star hotel. There are numerous inspiring stories from our female artisans. Ultimately, these economic opportunities lift families and communities. It allows refugees and displaced people to shape their own lives, develop their skills, follow their passions while also reaching financial stability. 

We now have the unique opportunity to harness these talents to build back a more harmonious society; and the economic benefits of promoting and supporting these small to medium enterprises (SMEs) is endless. A report by the Centre for Policy Development and the Open Political Economy Network found that launching 1,000 new refugee businesses a year can yield nearly $100 million in annual economic gains in Australia. As we look to rebuild our economies, it is vital we ensure viable economic opportunities for vulnerable communities across the world. This can be achieved through the support from and collaboration with NGOs and philanthropic organisations who can provide the resources needed for refugees and displaced people to build the foundations for their own futures. Resources need to reflect the diverse needs of vulnerable communities, including access to healthcare and tools to encourage entrepreneurship. This is only possible when we engage with refugees and displaced people directly to truly understand the needs of different groups in different countries. 

We all have a role to play to inspire a better world. Through greater social awareness when purchasing products, the public can invest in the long-term and sustainable livelihood of vulnerable communities by simply engaging with such enterprises. I also strongly encourage global and local businesses to support refugees and displaced people, from partnering with key initiatives to hosting pop-up shops to raise awareness and provide a platform for greater commercial exposure. 
Our actions today will inspire the future of tomorrow. This World Refugee Day there is no better time to remind ourselves that ‘every action counts’. 

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How refugee employment benefits us all

Together with our partners, we facilitate effective and immediate aid for the most needful communities around the world. We connect and collaborate with international organizations that are at the forefront of disaster aid and relief to provide vital aid.

Providing Disaster Relief

Now more than ever, we must create a culture of inclusion that fosters diversity and empowers women. This is particularly pertinent in times of crises, with the Covid-19 pandemic having challenged the normative structures of almost every community around the world, highlighting a dire need for economic independence and welcoming new avenues in the creative economy.

Gender equality, if left unchanged, will undermine global economic stability. When we invest in a woman’s empowerment, it has a ripple effect on families, communities and countries whilst reshaping societies and unlocking women’s full potential.

The Covid-19 pandemic put a halt on life as we know it, with many people flocking to the creative industry, turning to crafts, films and digital concerts as an outlet. In doing so, the world sustained the creative economy, a piece of the global economy that had been previously overlooked. Following a year of uncertainty, there could not be a better time to appreciate the creative economy. It comes as no surprise that the United Nations has marked 2021 as the International Year of the Creative Economy for Sustainable Development. 

If cultivated, the promotion of creativity can contribute to greater gender equality, by enhancing inclusion and diversity within the labour force, while giving way to a host of positive reverberations including job creation, socio-economic progress, structural economic transformation, innovation and sustainable human development.

To promote greater gender equality and enhance creativity, we must explore different facets of society and ensure there is adequate representation. Organizations of scientists, sociologists, psychologists and economists have time and time again published research that has proven that diverse groups – specifically, gender-inclusive groups – are more innovative than homogenous groups. The simple act of engaging with different genders brings unique perspectives and experiences. 

Women in the creative economy have been particularly marginalised. The UNESCO Report on Gender Equality and Culture 'Gender Equality, Heritage and Creativity’, which calls for deeper debate, research and awareness-raising in support of equal rights, identifies the key challenges our communities are facing with women’s participation in the creative workforce. A few elements continue to hinder women from reaching their full potential while impeding global sustainability and inclusive social development. These include limited participation in decision-making positions, referred to as the ‘glass ceiling’; restricted opportunities for ongoing training, capacity-building and networking; unequal pay; and the prevalence of gender stereotypes. 

Philanthropy and the humanitarian sector have an important role to play in overcoming these barriers, to ensure that women are provided with equal opportunities. One key avenue, is the development of specialised educational and training opportunities for women in the creative space. This supports the economic and personal empowerment of women, while also preserving their rich cultural heritage. In turn, this provides future generations with intangible assets, such as, inventions, designs and an understanding of their cultural history. 

Restricting creative opportunities, particularly for women and marginalised groups, leads to a loss of great ideas, weakens economic empowerment, and reduces representation within the sector. We must actively pave the way for women now, to ensure a more equal world for the next generation. 

At Alwaleed Philanthropies, our empowerment programs continue to bridge the gender gap and stimulate innovation. We are committed to providing women everywhere their right to education, employment and intellectual freedom so that talented professionals can realize their ambitions and reach their full potential. We are committed to challenging gender inequality by supporting the creative economy, which in turn drives the economic development of communities across the globe.



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How the creative industry is challenging gender inequality

In many cities around the world, women and girls still have a lot to worry about when it comes to their personal safety. According to UN-Habitat, violence makes up at least 25 to 30 per cent of urban crime and women, especially in developing countries, are twice as likely to be victims of violent aggression (including domestic violence) as men.

Studies carried out in the Arab world show that 70 per cent of violence occurs in big cities. Intense and violent conflicts in the Arab region during the last decade have resulted in massive flows of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees to cities in more peaceful areas. Female refugees, migrants and internally displaced women are particularly vulnerable to gender-based violence, as they suffer from inadequate living conditions and in most cases lack access to social protection services. People/women living in informal settlements  and homeless women face the daily risk of being subjected to violence, whether from an intimate partner or in public places.

The chaotic context of post-conflict situations increases violence against women. Displacement situations exacerbate the risk of gender-based violence as normal family and social networks with traditional protection structures break down. Women may have to leave secure areas to get resources or food in crisis situations. Changed gender roles in a post-conflict society due to a crisis may also trigger domestic violence.

COVID-19 has exacerbated existing social inequalities facing women and girls in urban areas. Imposing lockdowns and restrictions on movement outside the home has forced women in domestic violence situations to stay at home with their abusers. Meanwhile, the support services for survivors have been disrupted or rendered inaccessible.

Prevention of gender-based violence lies in changing the attitudes of men towards women and the as well as the positions that women have in societies, and securing permanent housing, livelihoods and education for all . Women should be protected in conflict and post-conflict environments in a way that does not isolate them. Strategies that prevent gender-based violence in the long term should be planned by the community members and incorporated into all post-conflict planning activities.

It is, as ever, essential to advocate  for special attention to women’s safety because the disproportionate  violence faced by women limits their rights and freedoms to mobility, education, work, recreation and participation in public and political life.

As we all UNiTE this year to end violence against women, taking actions to increase awareness, galvanize advocacy efforts, and share knowledge and innovations is key to supporting women and girls to stay safe and free of violence.

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Cities Free from Violence Against Women and Girls 

Tolerance is a virtue that makes peace possible and fosters harmony. By creating a culture of understanding, and one that rejects and eschews discrimination and enmity, we have the potential to tackle inequality whether social, cultural or economic.

More than ever, we are witnessing a global transformation; 2020 has placed a spotlight on the cracks within our communities. Though challenging, it has shed a light on discrimination, enhanced inequalities and the increased involuntary displacement of people, that, if left unchanged, will undermine global stability.

As we move toward a new era, one that will require the cooperation of many, we must place tolerance and acceptance at the heart of our actions. This must include building cross-cultural bridges, actively tackling misconceptions and equipping the next generation with the tools to continue to promote collaboration regardless of race, gender or religion. 

*‘Tolerance is respect, acceptance and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world’s cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human.’*
UNESCO’s 1995 Declaration of Principles on Tolerance

At Alwaleed Philanthropies, we have long understood the potential that can be unlocked through greater cultural understanding and collaboration. That is why we launched six Alwaleed Academic Centres at world-leading academic institutions. They serve to advance the understanding and tackle the misconceptions that can create a barrier between Islam and the West. These centres develop and run innovative projects to encourage increased knowledge of religions, cultures and languages, ultimately developing a deep appreciation of different cultures and traditions.

Our partners include Harvard University, the University of Cambridge, and the American University of Beirut. They have successfully advanced the understanding of the next generation and inspired advanced research on vital topics; all while simultaneously running outreach programmes to engage with the public and build cultural bridges within the wider community.

Part of inspiring greater tolerance is tackling misconceptions. This can be hard to do, as they are often born from misunderstanding. However, I believe that art inspires feeling and emotion and provides a window through which we can explore different perspectives. We recognise art as a powerful tool to bring people together. Through our partnership with Musee du Louvre in Paris and the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, we have built Islamic Learning Centres to provide that window. We enable people to peer into the deep history and culture of the Islamic world, something that is not widely understood and appreciated. We also took this opportunity to empower refugees in Berlin through the Multaka project, which trains Syrian and Iraqi refugees to work as museum guides. This supports refugees in adjusting to life in a new country and connects their past with their present and their future.

Cross-cultural initiatives have the potential to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges, whether supporting refugees in Europe or easing social tensions through a greater focus on commonalities. However, tolerance cannot be simply implemented; it must be coupled with greater diversity, educational resources and increased economic opportunities. Together, we must encourage and promote respect for one another without distinction of any kind.  We each have the power, and the responsibility, to advance tolerance within our communities. In turn, this tolerance will create a more prosperous future for all.

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The role of art and academia in inspiring global tolerance

On this day in 2009, the United Nations General Assembly formalised the first World Humanitarian day. The day was designated in memory of Sergio Vieira de Mello, a UN humanitarian who died, along with 22 other people, in a bomb attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad in 2003. Today around the world millions of aid and health workers continue to make extraordinary sacrifices to help those most in need and alleviate suffering around the world, and it is only right we celebrate the work they do. 

This year has been particularly challenging for the global community; however, through collaboration, resilience, and drive we have been able to work together to protect some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. Humanitarian action is driven by the passion of individuals on the ground. We understand the importance of empowering the next generation to drive impactful and meaningful action. In doing so, we have supported over 194,000 people, across 50 countries as part of the Humanitarian Leadership Academy. Today, we not only recognise the commitment and tireless efforts of humanitarians but take a moment to reflect on the inspiring work done to save lives, alleviate human suffering and maintain human dignity.

Alwaleed Philanthropies believes in the power of collaboration to tackle the world’s most pressing issues. The pandemic has significantly impacted educational and employment opportunities across the world. For example, immunisation programmes have been disrupted leaving 80 million children across the world under the age of one unprotected from preventable diseases. It is up to us not to let this happen. Together with our partners, such as GAVI: the global vaccine alliance, UNICEF, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation we are working to ensure that all children are given life-saving vaccines.

For World Humanitarian Day, we wanted to highlight three of the projects that our partners are involved in to help some of the most vulnerable communities around the world.

ICESCO

The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) has an initiative to address both the health and economic repercussions associated with the COVID-19 in 10 Africa nations: Niger, Senegal, Morocco, Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Nigeria, the Sudan, Mauritania, and Cote d’Ivoire.

The volunteers of this initiative have been working tirelessly to provide food assistance to the neediest populations and those most affected by the pandemic, most notably; centres of elderly care, people with disabilities, women victims of violence, orphanages, refugee centres and patients in health centres and hospitals. Most importantly they have begun to build local capacities in the production of sanitisers and protective equipment (gels, protective masks, ventilators) through prioritising local entrepreneurs currently working in the informal sectors. This has the dual benefits of providing people with jobs and helping to improve hygiene in order to tackle the pandemic.

UN Habitat

UN-Habitat works in over 90 countries, supporting people in cities and settlements for a better and sustainable urban future. This is particularly significant as we witness rapidly growing populations across much of the developing world. Taking a sustainable approach to meet this challenge can help lead to a cleaner, greener and more prosperous world. During the pandemic the UN Habitat aid workers have been working to establish shelter and rehabilitate damaged housings in order to address overcrowding and enable social/physical distancing and curb the spread of Covid-19.

Misr El Kheir Foundation

Away from the pandemic for a moment and keeping with the theme of sustainable urbanisation, Misr El Kheir Foundation is a local charity in Egypt which has launched the Sutra Project, an initiative that aims to build 10,000 housing units for Egyptian families with the highest needs over the next ten years. Alwaleed Philanthropies is assisting them in this by partnering with the Egyptian Ministries of Housing, Urban Communities, Local Development and Social Welfare to help the Misr El Kheir Foundation complete its mission.

These are just three of the countless projects that help to alleviate and support in the development of communities around the world. None of these projects would be possible without the tireless commitment of aid and humanitarian workers. Their work continues to inspire us each and every day. Today we commemorate not only their work, but the countless lives they have helped to save.

World Humanitarian Day: Celebrating sustainable humanitarian action

As we move toward a post-pandemic world, global focus has shifted to what the ‘new normal’ will be like. Organizations are reshaping their working culture, precautionary health measures are set to become a part of our daily lives, and technology continues to provide an essence of normalcy as we adjust. During this time, governments across the world are launching their economic recovery plans; however, it has become increasingly apparent that economic security is unequal– with women and the youth carrying the burden.  

Across every sphere, the economic fallout is predicted to impact 1.5 billion workers worldwide, with the potential to wipe out over 195 million jobs, as reported by the International Labor Organization (ILO). This, in turn, is set to negatively affect certain groups more than others, specifically, people in less protected and low-paid jobs such as women and people under 25.  

Calls for social distancing and quarantine, although essential, have directly impacted industries reliant on customer-provider interactions, such as restaurants, hotels, retail, or transportation. According to the Institute for Fiscal Studies, a UK-based think tank, women are one-third more likely to work in sectors that have been forced to close than their male counterparts, while workers under 25 are about two and a half times more likely to work in one of those sectors . The overrepresentation of both women and youth in these sectors has and will heighten their vulnerabilities during the crisis. 

As these industries begin to close or dramatically reduce their workforce, women and youth are at risk of being left behind. For young people, COVID-19 has impacted their education, economic opportunities, access to resources, health, and overall wellbeing. During the upcoming recovery period, they are at risk of being forced to agree to precarious job conditions that provide them with inadequate social protection. This is further intensified for young women who are from minority or low-earning backgrounds.  

Women have been hit particularly hard by the pandemic, and this has exacerbated existing inequalities. There have been widespread reports of increased incidents of domestic violence, while women also make up a significant proportion of frontline workers at risk of contracting the disease, as well as undertaking childcare responsibilities and informal care work at home. Some organizations, to mitigate their own economic difficulties, have asked female employees to take parental leave or have furloughed them, without asking the same of their male employees.  

With the existing pay gap and savings imbalances, this could result in long-lasting economic impacts and financial instability for women in the workforce. The pandemic has shed a light on and deepened pre-existing inequalities; it has exposed the challenges in the social and economic systems that are meant to cater and protect those in need. 