//Skip to content
Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

Why Do Egyptian Men Refuse To Reveal Their Mother’s Name?

March 22, 2015

By UN Women For men in Egypt and in many other countries in the Middle East, there is a peculiar taboo of not disclosing one’s mother’s name in public, lest her name become a subject of shame and ridicule in public forums. Over time, her name becomes forgotten and she’s only referred to as ‘The mother of her eldest son’. UN Women’s ‘Give Mom Back Her Name’ initiative is simple yet powerful and aims to take steps to eradicate this taboo and giving mothers in Egypt and the Middle East their names back in public fora. Mohammed Naciri, UN Women Regional Director, says, “A woman’s name should never be associated with shame or embarrassment – this mother’s day, we are reclaiming that space and recognizing women for the incredible individuals they are, not only as the mother of her eldest son.” The initiative is created together with IMPACT BBDO Dubai and aims to open a larger conversation of women´s rights and gender equality in the Middle East and the world. While the region has many challenges to overcome to reach gender equality, such initiatives aim to change the fabric of…


Hi guest,

You've read all of your free articles.
Subscribe now to support independent journalism and to enjoy:


Unlimited access to all our articles

Exclusive events and offers

First access to new premium newsletters

Ability to comment on articles

Full user profile