Women in Saudi Arabia Politics

A Saudi Arabian woman is a person who has never had any say, she has been neglected, mistreated and her rights violated for years. She has never had any role to play in the development of her country. She has never been allowed to drive, move independently in the public or work closely with men. Her life has never been easy; she has been doomed and pushed to the wall where she cannot move any longer.

At this position, she cried loudly and her voice was heard by the whole world. Due to her consistence crying, the world governing bodies pressured her oppressors to grant her rights. After women’s rights were granted, they began to get involved actively in politics. King Abdullah became the first Saudi Arabian king to appoint a total of 30 women in Shura council. The council was formally occupied by all men. Because of the whole world fight for women’s rights in this county, the king had no option but to make the appointment. He only made this appointment after a thorough consultation with religious leaders. Today, out of 150 members of Shura council, fifth of them are women. 

What is the role of women in this council? Women were appointed in this council to act as advisers. They are to give advice during the making of important decisions which are intended to be moving the country forward. Though they have a role to play in the government, their public participation is still minimal. Women are also allowed to vote in Saudi Arabia politics.

The law allows them to vie for various posts in the municipal elections. This was a memorable change in the governorship of Saudi Arabia. The law also gives women full rights to enjoy their privileges. They are able to work freely in public offices and perform various duties which modern women all over the world do these days. There is also a special seat for women in Shura council. This has been a motivating factor for Saudi Arabia women who have had interest in politics. In the Shia committee, which consists of four members, one of them is a woman. Though the women are now publicly involved in Saudi Arabia politics, some of the Saudi Arabians are still against it. Since these changes, women have been experiencing pressures from social media about their involvement in politics. The good news is that they have been able to withstand it.