Opinion | Editorials

Need to empower UAE women

Presence in the political arena is also one of the areas that must be advanced

  • Gulf News
  • Published: 23:09 March 17, 2009
  • Gulf News

The role of Emirati women in the development of the UAE is crucial, especially with the increase in the number of graduates and those joining the workforce. Women's presence in the political arena is also one of the areas that must be advanced as well.

A recent study on the status of women has highlighted the achievements of Emirati women in politics. The study, co-authored by the Dubai School of Government's Gender and Public Policy programme and the Ministry of State for Federal National Council Affairs, carried out a series of interviews with current female members of the Federal National Council (FNC) as well as candidates who had lost in the elections of 2006. According to the study, the UAE now ranks third in terms of the percentage of seats held by women in parliament in comparison to other Gulf countries. The drastic change in course came following the government's decision to enable women to enter the FNC.

The presence of women in decision making positions is necessary to bring about general changes in the perception of women's role in society. But it should not be based solely on gender. The search should always be for the educated, experienced and talented.



Your comments


Congratulations! I am happy to hear about it living here in Europe and hope to meet a business partner woman in your country!
Jolanta
Klaipeda,Lithuania
Posted: March 18, 2009, 10:16

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