Kuwaiti women have come a long way since they were granted their political rights on May 16, 2005. This historic day marked a significant milestone in the lives of Kuwaiti women, as they were finally able to participate in the political scene by running for elections and casting their votes.
Women’s political rights have opened doors of opportunities for them to participate in decision-making processes and contribute to the democratic process in the country.
Following the unanimous vote of the National Assembly to grant Kuwaiti women their full political rights, women have proven their responsibility and capability in the political field. In interviews with KUNA, several Kuwaiti female academics and those interested in political and women’s affairs emphasized the political awareness of Kuwaiti women. Their participation in parliamentary elections has made a significant difference in delivering their issues and demands, and they have become active agents of change in the country.
Kuwaiti women have played a vital role in deepening the democratic process in the country. They have demonstrated their eagerness to serve their communities and address their needs. Their contributions have not only benefited women but also the Kuwaiti society as a whole. The granting of political rights to women has brought gender equality to the forefront of political discourse, leading to the implementation of policies aimed at enhancing women’s participation in various fields.
In conclusion, the granting of political rights to Kuwaiti women has been a turning point in the history of the country. Women have proven their capability, responsibility, and eagerness to participate in the political scene. They have become active agents of change and a driving force in deepening the democratic process in the country.
According to Dr. Maryam Al-Azmi, the Acting Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, the participation of women in Kuwait’s elections has several benefits. Firstly, it ensures that citizenship rights are activated equally for both men and women, which leads to the establishment of a just, free, and equal society. Secondly, this participation helps to facilitate and approve the right of women to take part in political decision-making, which is guaranteed by Articles seven and eight of the Kuwait Constitution, she told Arab Times
She emphasized that women can make their voices heard under the dome of Abdullah Al-Salem Hall, either through their candidacy and the chance to win a seat in the National Assembly or through the election of members of parliament who adopt their issues and demands in their electoral program. She continued that although four women won parliamentary seats in 2009 and major efforts by women to win political rights that lasted 20 years, women may face some challenges that hinder expanding the scope of their participation. She added that the challenges may be due to the cultural system that does not motivate women to participate politically and assume leadership roles and decision-making positions, or the challenge may be the women themselves as there are some groups not convinced in activating women’s political participation and voting for them. She pointed out to the inability of some media outlets to play a developmental or changeable role regarding the values that affect the participation of women and highlighting their successes.
