This study aims to evaluate the role of Home-Based Enterprises (HBEs) in enhancing economic resilience in the West Bank by assessing their economic contribution, identifying the challenges they face, and analyzing their potentials.
Main Question
To what extent do HBEs strengthen economic resilience in the West Bank, and how do structural, financial, and institutional factors shape their performance and sustainability?
Hypothesis
HBEs function as key adaptive mechanisms that bolster economic resilience by creating income-generating opportunities, especially for women, and sustaining localized production during periods of instability—despite operating within a constrained environment.
Methodology
A mixed-method design integrates: Quantitative analysis and Qualitative SWOT analysis.
Results
HBEs contribute 7% of West Bank GDP (around USD 1.2 billion) and provide livelihoods for 185,000 individuals, with women representing over 60% of participants. Their low-cost and flexible nature enables them to endure economic shocks. However, HBEs face significant barriers: limited access to finance (69%), poor infrastructure, technological gaps, informality (98.8% unregistered), and restricted market reach. .
Conclusion
HBEs are essential socio-economic institutions that enhance economic resilience in crisis-prone contexts. Strengthening this sector requires targeted policy interventions focused on improving financial access, infrastructure, digital capabilities, and supportive regulatory environments.