JEDDAH, 4 August 2004 — The wife of Crown Prince Abdullah has said women’s role in society was being hindered by women themselves.
She also defended Saudi women wearing the veil in public places.
Princess Hussa Al-Shaalan praised her husband for supporting women and their rights. “He doesn’t discriminate (between his sons and daughters), and always says that a woman has her rights, given to her by God and Islam, so why should we take them away from her,” she told Al-Hayat daily.
In response to a question on the reasons behind women not working, she said: “A woman hinders herself, and she is responsible for her future and for entering different job sectors. I call on all women to work within our traditions and culture and according to the instructions of our religion.”
Princess Hussa defended the wearing of the veil, saying, “I ask God to maintain the blessing (of the veil). This modest, conservative dress equates between people and is a symbol of our religion.”
“We respect our traditions and culture and the religion of others; why doesn’t the West respect our reality and life and thoughts? Everyone must know that, especially for woman, we have our traditions and culture and we will not give them up. The Saudi woman is generally happy with this situation,” the princess said.
Princess Hussa described the crown prince an ideal husband.
