This is with reference to the report “UNDP praises Saudi women empowerment” (March 10). Undoubtedly, within a short span Saudi women have excelled in almost every sphere of life. Those who unnecessarily criticize Saudi Arabia over issues related to women have no idea about the norms and values of the Saudi society. It is unwise to expect a society to adopt foreign values in the blink of an eye. As a matter of fact, such an approach always has a negative impact in the long run. In today’s world, it is important to learn from each other but the problem with the West is that it considers its values to have a universal appeal, which is not correct.
The western countries have an edge over the rest of the world due to the advancements in science and technology but that does not make them torchbearers of human values. Every society is unique and therefore it should be allowed to adapt to change in its own way.
Nobody should expect Muslim societies across the world to adopt western values in their entirety. Islam is the driving force behind Muslim societies. Our religion is not against progress but it has already provided its followers with a solid framework to move about in this world, not the one advocated by extremist elements by the way. Therefore, Muslims cannot and will not accept western ideals. We, however, can tailor useful western concepts according to our needs. The western academics and intellectuals should understand this issue so as to avoid unnecessary friction. — Rabia Jaleel, Riyadh
Women empowerment
