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
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
More from Editorials
More from Opinions
Opinion Editor's choice
-
Syrian crisis and rumblings of a cold war
By Patrick Seale, Special to Gulf News
With their vetoes, Russia and China are saying they too have interests in the Middle East, which they are bent on protecting
-
Motives for a new regional alignment
By Marwan Kabalan, Special to Gulf News
The relationship between Iraq and Syria strengthened following the breakout of the uprising and withdrawal of US troops
-
Learning Arabic must not be seen as a compulsion
By Rabia Alavi, Special to Gulf News
Expatriates must see its inclusion in school curriculum as an invitation to integrate into Emirati society and an opportunity to access markets presently reserved for Emiratis
Your turn
