Rural women constitute nearly one-quarter of the world’s population and undoubtedly play a vital and decisive role in household economies and community livelihoods. In addition to their economic responsibilities, they are also tasked with caring for, managing, and supporting their families. Two critical points must be considered when examining the situation of rural women: First, 76% of the world's extreme poverty is concentrated in rural areas. Second, rural women face numerous discriminatory social, cultural, and familial norms and structures.

Their participation in social and political spheres is significantly more limited—not only compared to urban women but even to rural men. Moreover, access to public services, educational resources, and healthcare remains limited for many of them. Despite these challenges, rural women—alongside their agricultural and livestock duties—spend what little free time remains in their day on handicrafts and other home-based activities, continuing to contribute to their household economy. They are also responsible for caring for children, the elderly, and ill family members.

In recognition of the invaluable role rural women play in household sustenance, rural development, and food security, the United Nations declared October 15 (23rd of Mehr in the Persian calendar) as the International Day of Rural Women in 2007.

In line with this, the Research Core for Rural Geography Studies at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad has held annual scientific conferences on October 15th since 2011 (except during the COVID-19 years of 2020–2021). These events have focused on topics such as women and rural development, rural management, employment and entrepreneurship, natural resource conservation, tourism, and the capacities and constraints of empowering rural and nomadic women. These conferences have led to the presentation and publication of cutting-edge research related to rural and nomadic women's issues.

This year’s conference (2025) marks the sixth national and first international conference, titled “Rural and Nomadic Women: Handicrafts, Empowerment, and Sustainable Entrepreneurship,” to be held on October 15–16 in Mashhad. The event will address thirteen themes focused on the role of handicrafts and local production by rural and nomadic women in various aspects of livelihood, economy, society, culture, local and national identity, physical and mental health, sustainable employment, and reducing rural-to-urban migration.

While the primary emphasis is on women’s businesses in the handicraft sector, a central concern remains: How can home-based crafts and skills be transformed into sustainable businesses and sources of income? Unfortunately, many rural and nomadic women are unaware of product pricing, marketing strategies, and business development processes. They lack supportive consultants and guarantees for growing their ventures. This is especially critical in times of drought, when agriculture and livestock farming are no longer profitable. In such contexts, developing tourism and reviving handicrafts can offer income-generating alternatives, help maintain rural populations, and even reverse migration trends. Let us not forget that rural women are often the final decision-makers on whether a family migrates or stays.

It is therefore fitting that we honor the hard-working, patient, and courageous rural and nomadic women of Iran on this day and remain hopeful that they will achieve their rightful place and human dignity. Undoubtedly, access to employment, entrepreneurship opportunities, and financial resources is a powerful means for women to enter the path of development and gain economic, social, and psychological empowerment—while also reducing gender inequalities. Moreover, their engagement in rural handicrafts plays a vital role in preserving local identities and the cultural heritage of each region, and deserves full recognition.

With respect,
Khadijeh Bozorgmehri
Scientific Secretary of the Conference