The results of the general elections in Kuwait are significant on more than one level. They not only indicate the kind of change that voters are looking for, but also how the future of the country will be shaped.
One notable development has been the reduced presence of Islamists in the National Assembly. There had been many signals pointing to such an outcome as the country had been politically deadlocked for a long period of time. This created an environment that encouraged clashes instead of reconciliation. It also prevented constructive dialogue from taking place.
Another significant breakthrough saw the election of four women, the first to be voted in since the Assembly's inception 46 years ago. This unprecedented achievement was made all the more special by the fact that each of the women were uniquely qualified to fill their posts because of their experience in their respective fields.
They will represent a variety of voices for women in the country. Their election represents a step forward not only for Kuwaiti women, but also for women's rights in the Gulf region as a whole.
