Bethlehem, August 26th – Caritas Jerusalem, in partnership with the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce and in collaboration with Caritas Spain, hosted a closing ceremony to celebrate the progress of the project titled "Empowering Refugee Women through Enhancing Entrepreneurship Skills and Small Economic Projects in the Bethlehem Governorate." This significant initiative, funded by Fons Menorquí Cooperació and the Diocesan Caritas of Menorca, commenced in June 2023 and is scheduled to conclude in May 2024.

The project is a vital component of efforts to foster socio-economic development within the Bethlehem Governorate, Palestine, and is closely aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality). The initiative is dedicated to improving the employability and competitive edge of economic ventures undertaken by refugee women who are in vulnerable situations.

Seventy refugee women were selected and trained to develop their own economic micro-enterprises, with special emphasis placed on those living in refugee camps. Women residing outside the camps, but still recognized as refugees and meeting the criteria for vulnerability, were also included in the program. The project provided three distinct training courses in micro-enterprise development: two foundational courses for 25 participants each and one advanced course for 20 participants.

A key aspect of the project was the support extended to eight existing small businesses. These businesses were identified through a rigorous selection process involving local actors and representatives from Bethlehem's three refugee camps. The support included tailored business plans, ongoing coaching, provision of necessary equipment, promotional activities, and follow-up support extending up to five months beyond the project's completion.