Kuwaiti Women's Day

Certainly, May 16th each year is a historic day in the life of Kuwaiti women and is celebrated as a day symbolizing their attainment of political rights and their active participation in this field, reflecting the political leadership's belief in the role of women in various sectors and its commitment to empowering them in decision-making positions.

On May 16, 2005, Kuwaiti women achieved their political rights to stand for election and vote, following its official approval by the Kuwaiti National Assembly. This came after a decree by the late Amir, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad, granting women their political rights, and the government presented the draft law to the parliament for voting and approval.

The initiative of the late Amir, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad, was a testament to the importance of women's role and an acknowledgment of their contributions to Kuwait's progress in various fields, particularly their heroic stance alongside their male counterparts during the Gulf War and their valuable sacrifices.

The first participation of Kuwaiti women in the National Assembly elections took place in 2006. Their political experience continued with their participation in the 2008 National Assembly elections, leading to the election of four female deputies to the Abdullah Al-Salem Hall.

Kuwaiti women have proven their leading role in the country's development journey across various sectors. This was not a sudden development but rather a result of their contributions throughout the pre-oil era and the acknowledgment that women constitute half of society. They worked alongside men towards Kuwait's progress.

Women in Kuwait have held leadership positions, ranging from ministers to deputy ministers, university presidents, and ambassadors. They have also gained experience in the private sector, enabling them to occupy advanced regional and international positions.

This celebration aims to promote and highlight the cultural aspects of Kuwaiti women, especially women in general. It emphasizes their positive and leading role in their social and political journey and their continuous contributions to building society.

Kuwaiti women would not have achieved this success without the supportive environment represented by the legislative and social system. The political and economic freedom enjoyed by Kuwaiti women fostered great confidence, resulting in creativity and excellence in various fields.

Kuwaiti women take great pride in the significant achievements they have made in recent years, positioning Kuwait as a leader in achieving gender equality in the Arab world, according to the Global Economic Forum's 2015 report.