Saudi King Gives Women Right to Vote in 2015

King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz al-Saud announced on Sunday that women will have the right to vote and stand in elections. However, women will not be able to participate in next week’s elections, but have to wait until 2015 to exercise their right to vote. The decision comes as pressure for reform sweeps the Arab world, and is a major shift in the ultra-conservative agenda of the monarchy.

“We refuse to marginalize the role of women in Saudi society and in every aspect, within the rules of Sharia,” Abdullah said in his announcement before the Shura Council. The King did not address other issues concerning women’s rights in Saudi Arabia, where women are not allowed to drive or leave the country or work without male permission.

Many liberals and human rights activists praised the announcement, as it raised hopes that other social and democratic demands could be met one day. Saudi writer and women’s rights activist, Wajeha al-Huwaider said, “Women’s voices will finally be heard. Now it is time to remove other barriers like not allowing women to drive cars and not being able to function, to live a normal life without male guardians.” The White House also praised the king’s decision, saying “Saudi Arabia is taking an important step ahead in expanding women’s rights by allowing women to vote and run in local elections in 2015

Below is a video clip of the King’s announcement on Sunday (Arabic)