SHAPING LIVES WITH GOLD: INVESTIGATING FERTILITY CHOICES AND MAHR IN THE MENA CONTEXT

Abstract

The influence of female economic independence within households on fertility decisions has been a subject of extensive research, yielding varying results across developed and developing nations. This study investigates the dynamic relationship between female economic independence and fertility choices, shedding light on the complex interplay of factors involved. Research has suggested that increased economic independence for women can expand their decision-making power within households, potentially leading to greater fertility options (Jennings & Pierotti, 2016). Moreover, addressing gender wage disparities can bolster women's capacity to choose larger family sizes (Siegel, 2017).

While the impact of women's participation in the labor force has been widely studied, there remains a dearth of research exploring alternative indicators capable of enhancing women's status within households. This paper aims to bridge this gap by examining the effects of various strategies aimed at augmenting women's independence within the family unit. Furthermore, it delves into the significance of women's empowerment in shaping broader economic development, drawing from insights in the field of intra-household decision-making (Pierre et al., 2018).

This comprehensive analysis offers a nuanced perspective on the intricate dynamics between female economic independence, fertility choices, and overall socio-economic progress. By exploring the multifaceted facets of women's empowerment within households, we strive to provide a deeper understanding of how these dynamics can shape the trajectory of economic development