No matter which specific situation we
look at, many people of the Western world understand that the
majority of Middle Eastern countries view and address women in a
different way than we are familiar with. By no means does this
entitle Westerners to stereotype all Middle Eastern people as sexist,
but the differences often cause us separate ourselves from Middle
Eastern societies and ways of living. However, according to this BBC
World News article, that societal gap between the West and the Middle
East is seeing some reduction. In fact, parts of Saudi Arabia's
political infrastructure seem to be evolving and taking what
Westerners would call a modern approach to government.
Although the country is still a
Monarchy, under rule of King Abdullah, the King recently appointed
thirty women to his Consultative Council known as the Shura Council.
According to BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner, this is “the
closest Saudi women have ever come to public participation in
politics”. This is a massive step forward for women's rights in
Saudi Arabia, and will hopefully be recognized and emulated by other
Middle Eastern countries who have not allowed women to be involved in
politics in the past.
The women selected to be a part of the
Shura Council are expected to bring fresh ideas and new perspectives
to the Saudi government. However, the women are also in danger and
are sure to experience a great deal of opposition from Saudi Arabia's
ultra-conservative political groups who are appalled by the King's
decision. All in all, I believe this is a positive change that will
brighten the future of Saudi Arabia. The induction of women into the
council will also reflect well on countries outside of the Middle
East who are for women's rights.
Here is a link to the article: BBC Article
-Ben Heitmann
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