RIYADH, 2 March 2003 — Some say that women’s voices are barely audible in the Kingdom, while others argue that women do indeed have a say, if not real authority, when it comes to important matters which directly affect them. These two positions are essentially the basis of a debate surrounding the issue of women’s representation in the Kingdom’s consultative assembly, or Shoura Council.
The issue of female representation was raised by the group of reformists who met with Crown Prince Abdullah almost a month ago. The council’s remit is to ensure that all members of society have an equal say. Although established by King Abdul Aziz when he unified the Kingdom in 1932, the Shoura as we know it today was approved by King Fahd in 1992.
The council, which has its roots in Islamic jurisprudence, seeks to establish a dialogue between distinguished individuals who act as representatives for their community and decision-makers.
The question is: How can they act on behalf of half of the population if women are not included among the representatives?
The council does seek the advice and expertise of women in some matters, especially on issues which directly concern them. However, no women presently serve as members or officers. This is seen by many as an obstacle to women’s rise into positions of real authority and decision-making.
Osamah Al-Kurdi, a Shoura Council member who sits on the economic committee, told Arab News that women have a say already.
“Many people seem to have the misconception that because women are not members of the Shoura Council, their opinions and views are disregarded by the council when making decisions,” he said.
“However, the truth is that women do have a say in council decision-making, especially in matters concerning women’s issues. In such cases, women from all walks of life are invited to the council meeting so that we can hear their thoughts and comments.”
Dr. Mona Hamam at King Khaled University Hospital Research Center in Riyadh says that Saudi women are “hard workers” and have a knack for excellence.
“When you compare men and women here, I think women tend to be brighter and more active,” says Dr. Hamam. “They are fighters and want to prove themselves through studies and hard work.”
The women of Saudi Arabia, for the outside world at least, seem always to have been enshrouded in an aura of mystique and misconception. Their role as active and productive members of society and their contributions to the Kingdom’s economic growth and technological advancement is a fact that often escapes notice. Saudi women are doctors and professors, scientists and journalists and, increasingly, entrepreneurs — and own about 4.3 percent of registered businesses in the Kingdom. Some have maneuvered themselves beyond the traditional careers for women and are now entering new territory, such as marketing and advertising.
That is not to say, however, that they do not face challenges. Their upward mobility may sometimes be hampered by social and cultural restraints. Thus increasing numbers of women are arguing that female representation on the Shoura Council is now a must.
“I think it would be a good step forward,” Bouthaina Kamal Jhony, the owner of Bouthaina Fashion and Beauty in Jeddah, told Arab News. “I hope women can be permanent members of the Shoura soon.”
Dr. Hamam also acknowledges the need for decision-makers to give prominence to women’s views and opinions when making decisions.
“It’s very important that the decision-makers take the opinion of women, not only in matters concerning women but in all aspects of life,” she adds.
Dr. Hamam believes that it is not only important that women have a say, but that they are listened to.
“I don’t think women necessarily have to be the decision-makers. Women can talk all they like. The important question is whether their views are taken into account, whether they have real influence and can make a difference.”
Hala Kettaneeh, an assistant at Al-Nahdi Ladies Center in Riyadh, says that not all women are against the traditional all-male council. Some are happy with the status quo, and say their needs are being met.
“They are content with things as they are and think keeping up the traditions of the Kingdom comes first.”
Whether women can reach the upper echelons in Saudi society remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Saudi women are making important contributions to the development of their country, and the majority of them think that it is time the Shoura Council took that fact into account.
