Kuwaiti Women's Day

Sheikha Fadia Saad Al-Abdullah Al-Salem, the Chairperson of the Kuwaiti Union of Women's Associations, emphasized the necessity of expanding women's participation and providing serious guarantees to put these demands into action, moving them from rhetoric to tangible steps.

During the celebration held by the union on the occasion of Kuwaiti Women's Day, Sheikha Fadia expressed her happiness at the opening of the regional consultative meeting that coincided with the celebration and continued for three days. She pointed out that this meeting addresses a fundamental and crucial issue of utmost importance, focusing on "violence against women and girls" within the framework of the cooperation between the Kuwaiti Union of Women's Associations, the Geneva Institute for Human Rights, and the UN Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls.

Sheikha Fadia mentioned that this is a feeling of deep appreciation for the noble meanings represented by this scholarly meeting, which brings together experts from various countries who have come to Kuwait with a clear desire to enrich the subject with their insights and refined opinions, overseeing the extensive future prospects available to women as essential partners in development.

Sheikha Fadia Al-Sabah also noted that the timing of this consultative meeting coincides with Kuwaiti Women's Day, which falls on May 16. It marks the anniversary of Kuwaiti women gaining their political rights, acknowledging the legislative recognition of the role of Kuwaiti women after previously being largely unrecognized in society.

She added that this development brings satisfaction and contentment, as it aligns with our aspirations and goals. It strengthens our confidence and reassurance that women's progress has taken a successful and righteous path, leading to a bright and promising future filled with continuous growth and advancement

Sheikha Fadia Saad Al-Abdullah emphasized the commitment to liberating women from all forms of discrimination they suffer from and the development of legal framework in alignment with their awareness of their rights and responsibilities. She acknowledged the progress that Kuwait has achieved in various fields.

Sheikha Fadia stressed that measures aimed at achieving fair gender equality must form the cornerstone of any effective strategy for sustainable development by 2030, with its seventeen relevant goals.

Sheikha Fadia highlighted the necessity of expanding women's participation and ensuring genuine guarantees to put these demands into action, moving them from rhetoric to concrete steps. She pointed out that this can only be achieved through the implementation of the principle of "quotas" and the specific temporary measures that build on positive discrimination for women to enhance their participation.

She noted that expansion should include election representation, with a minimum representation percentage in all elected bodies, most notably the National Assembly, ranging from 30% to 40%, as stipulated by the Beijing Conference on Women Empowerment.

Sheikha Fadia explained that this percentage is widely recognized to create an influential women's bloc in legislative or appointive positions within public institutions. She stated that this system represents one of the effective mechanisms to overcome the barriers and obstacles that hinder women's access to decision-making positions, allowing them to assert themselves, showcase their capabilities, and change the prevailing stereotypical ideas about the role of women in society and education.

Sheikha Fadia Al-Sabah expressed her anticipation and appreciation for the ideas, insights, and practical recommendations that will be derived from this consultative meeting, aiming to establish legislative, legal, and ethical boundaries for the protection of women and girls from violence.

In addition, the Turkish Ambassador to the country, Tuba Nur Soysal, said in a press statement on the sidelines of the celebration, "We are very proud to see young Kuwaiti women being honored and encouraged by the Kuwaiti Union of Women's Associations." She also expressed pride in the presence of Kuwaiti women in the fields of science and space, stating that the number of women in Kuwait is increasing day by day. They have represented their country in all social sectors and leadership positions, and she looks forward to further collaboration between Kuwaiti and Turkish women.

Furthermore, the President of the International Women's Group, the wife of the Egyptian Ambassador to Kuwait, Ghada Shoukry, praised the role of Kuwaiti women in various fields, achieving numerous accomplishments in political, social, and academic life. She highlighted that the Kuwaiti woman has left a clear mark since 2005 when she gained the right to run for elections and later became a member of parliament, emphasizing that the role of Kuwaiti women should not be underestimated.

She also acknowledged the role of the Women's Union in promoting women's presence, highlighting their role and empowerment across various sectors, as well as achieving the Sustainable Development Goals within the United Nations program. She wished for further success, development, and advancement for Kuwaiti women who have proven their presence and competence in society.

The ceremony featured the screening of a documentary film that depicted the role of Kuwaiti women and their struggle throughout the ages. Several influential women in society were honored, individuals who have elevated Kuwait's name on the international stage.

Among those honored were Sheikha Tafaf Salem Al-Ali and Sheikha Bebe Daaij Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for their efforts in including the Kuwaiti "Sadu" on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Dr. Hala Al-Jassar, the Director of the Kuwaiti first satellite project, "KuwaitSat 1," and 20 members of the project team were also recognized. This project marks a significant step towards developing the aerospace industry in Kuwait. Additionally, members of the "Bus of Goodness" team, which supports students from disadvantaged families, were honored for their contributions.