DUBAI: We sit and we watch. We praise any small movement by the women's rights community in Saudi Arabia as if it is the beginning of a monumental change that will dramatically shake-up the future of the ultra-conservative Gulf country. The reality, despite the obvious optimism in recent years, is that women in Saudi Arabia are facing the worst political and social future of arguably any country in the world. Certainly, this can be construed as hyperbole by many observers who continue to claim that women are beginning to make moves towards greater rights. But the truth is we have a long way to go as a society before women begin to throw off the yoke of modern day slavery. Yes, Saudi women live in an almost slave-like society, where men determine where each step can go. If a woman wants to travel, she first must get permission from her husband or male guardian to do so. Talk of change and opening up of the political sphere, following King Abdullah's appointment of women to the Shura Council is too soon. The council is a non-voting, advisory body. While the inclusion of women might be a nice idea, it will remain much like the family make-up in the country. Yes, women are present, but do men listen and even care what they have to say. The reality is that it is a simple rubber stamp to help make Saudi's Western partners feel better about supporting a country that has done as much for women's rights as they have for their own native populations. Talking with Saudi women here in Dubai and it is clear why they are here. They don't want to spend their lives living in containment, where their every move is watched and where the space between their knees is measured and their “honor” and “dignity” is placed. “We want to have change, but how can we do anything when the world wants to continue to support the King and the small steps he is making. It is almost condescending how Saudi women are portrayed globally,” one woman told Bikyanews.com recently. The truth of the matter is that the global community is keen to support women's rights and change when it suits their own endeavors in the country and region. With Saudi Arabia, this is no different. Women in the Kingdom are struggling. A few concessions by the monarchy can do little to change the plight. Do we honestly believe that by allowing a few women on an advisory board will change how women are perceived and viewed? I doubt it. What we need is a stalwart effort by women, inside and outside Saudi Arabia, to push for change on a dramatic scale that will overturn decades of oppression. It can be done and it won't come from the top. It must be the women, facing hardships daily who will say enough is enough and push for their inalienable rights on a grand scale. Only then will Saudi women be partners in the future of their own country. Bikyanews.com
