The Socio-Economic Empowerment of Women in Local Communities in Southern Algeria: Between Cultural Heritage and the Demands of Social Entrepreneurship

Abstract

This paper aimed to assess the condition of women's social and economic empowerment in southern Algeria, focusing on the structural and cultural impediments that limit their participation in economic endeavors. The research sought to pinpoint obstacles such as marginalization, insufficient infrastructure, limited educational opportunities, tribal customs, and difficulties in accessing markets, while also highlighting avenues for sustainable development bolstered by governmental programs and social entrepreneurship efforts.
The research is based on a descriptive-analytical approach supported by a field study in the provinces of Ghardaia, Tamanrasset and Adrar, where the results disclose a significant drop in educational level, the spread of the informal economy, and the relative dependence on state subsidies. On the other hand, the article highlights promising opportunities through government support programs, women's cooperatives, cultural tourism initiatives, and digital marketing, proposing a framework that promotes social entrepreneurship to accomplish sustainable local development for women.