Kuwait honors Kuwaiti Women's Day: A two-decade voyage of empowerment and accomplishment
Unleashing Kuwaiti Women's Power: A 20-Year Soaring Journey
Twenty years ago, on May 16, 2005, Kuwaiti women claimed a pivotal moment, seizing their full political rights, propelling them into the public sphere, and setting the stage for their remarkable achievements ever since. This milestone is annually celebrated as Kuwaiti Women's Day, a testament to the progress made and the strides yet to come.
Recently, under the theme "Strategies for Supporting Kuwaiti Women in Accordance with Sustainable Development Goal 5," Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila, the Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs, led a ceremony honoring these feats. In her address, she highlighted the country's resilience in overcoming challenges, acclaiming Kuwaiti women as formidable partners in the renaissance and advancement of the State of Kuwait.
Dr. Al-Huwaila pointed out that under the visionary leadership of Kuwait's leaders, women now comprise an impressive 60% of the public sector workforce, hold 48% of positions in the private sector, and occupy 28% of leadership roles across the nation. Notably, women make up 41% of senior positions at the Central Bank of Kuwait and 54% of employees at the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation.
Kuwait's impact extends far beyond its borders, as the nation has made notable strides internationally. It advanced 62 places in the Women and Peace Index, improved by 10 points in closing the gender gap, and spearheaded the Gulf region in the 2023 Women's Empowerment in the Private Sector Initiative.
Crucial legislative reforms such as the abolition of Articles 153 and 182 of the Kuwaiti Penal Code, which enhanced protection for women and aligned with the Constitution's emphases on human dignity, equality, and opportunity, have fostered a culture of empowerment.
Ghada Al-Taher, the UN Secretary-General's Representative and Resident Coordinator in Kuwait, acknowledged this tangible progress, commending policies aimed at protection from violence, economic empowerment, and greater decision-making roles for women.
The US Ambassador to Kuwait, Karen Sasahara, echoed these sentiments, expressing her admiration for the accomplishments of Kuwaiti women and her eagerness to hear their voices in shaping the country's future aligned with His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad's vision for Kuwait.
As Kuwait celebrates this dynamic 20-year journey, officials have reaffirmed the importance of empowering women, acknowledging it as a cornerstone of sustainable development and the nation's progress.
With a commendable presence in politics, economics, and society, Kuwaiti women have proven their mettle and contributed significantly to Kuwait's development, paving the way for future generations of empowered women in the nation.
Enrichment Data:As of 2023, Kuwaiti women have demonstrated impressive growth in various sectors, generating a substantial impact in politics, economics, and society.
Politics
- Political Participation: Kuwaiti women's political influence is evidenced by their increased presence in public life, with enhanced participation and leadership roles[1][2].
- Legal Reforms: Crucial legislative reforms like the abolition of Articles 153 and 182 of the Kuwaiti Penal Code have enhanced protection for women, aligning with the emphases on human dignity, equality, and opportunity in the Constitution[3][4].
Economy
- Workforce Presence: Women's substantial impact in the workforce is signaled by their positions in public and private sectors, comprising 60% and 48% respectively[1].
- Leadership Roles: Women hold significant roles in national institutions, including 28% of leadership positions like 41% at the Central Bank of Kuwait and 54% at the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation[1].
- ** Entrepreneurship**: Government initiatives have supported women-led projects, extending their influence in diverse economic sectors[2].
Society
- Education: Kuwait boasts high female literacy rates and increasing enrollment in higher education, particularly in STEM fields[2].
- Recognition: Achievements of Kuwaiti women, such as Dr. Faiza Al-Kharafi and Engineer Sarah Akbar, have earned them spots on global lists, like Forbes' list of the 100 Most Powerful Women[2].
- Women's Empowerment Principles: Kuwait serves as the first Gulf country to adopt the Women's Empowerment Principles, establishing a regional benchmark for gender equality[1][3].
These achievements underscore the growing influence of Kuwaiti women, their impact on the nation's development, and the foundation laid for future generations of empowered women in Kuwait's community.
In the economic sector, Kuwaiti women have made significant strides, with 60% of the public sector workforce and 48% of positions in the private sector being filled by women. Furthermore, they occupy 28% of leadership roles across the nation, and constitute 41% of senior positions at the Central Bank of Kuwait and 54% of employees at the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation.
With a growing presence in politics, women's impact is evident in the increased participation and leadership roles they hold, a reflection of Kuwait's commitment to fostering empowerment through legal reforms such as the abolition of Articles 153 and 182 of the Kuwaiti Penal Code. These advances in women's health and wellness, as well as their social, economic, and political achievements, are fundamental pillars supporting Kuwait's soaring journey towards sustainable development.
