Crisis Studies of the Islamic World

Crisis Studies of the Islamic World

The Role of Home-Based Enterprises in Strengthening Economic Resilience during Crises: Evidence from the West Bank

Document Type : Research Paper

Author
Assistant Professor, Department of west Asian Studies, Faculty of World Studies, University of Tehran, Tehran Iran
10.27834/CSIW.2510.1605.4.40.7
Abstract
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 potential to support households and communities during crises. 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? 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 political and economic instability—despite operating within a constrained and vulnerable environment. A mixed-method design integrates: 1) Quantitative analysis of the 2022 Informal Sector and Informal Employment Survey (PCBS), covering 104,169 informal projects, including 14.3% HBEs. 2) Qualitative SWOT analysis assessing internal strengths/weaknesses and external opportunities/threats influencing the sector. HBEs contribute approximately 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. Opportunities identified include new legal reforms, expanded microfinance, and digital marketing. 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.
Keywords

Volume 12, Issue 5 - Serial Number 40
(English issue)
Autumn 2026

  • Receive Date 15 October 2025
  • Revise Date 02 December 2025
  • Accept Date 14 May 2026