20 February 2013

Saudi Arabian women take seats on advisory body

Women will be given a voice in shaping Saudi Arabia’s laws for the first time after the country officially swore in 30 female members to the Shura Council.

The council is an appointed body that advises the government on new laws, and functions in place of an elected parliament.

The move represents the first time in country's history that women have been able to hold any political office, and has riled conservative clerics in the Islamic monarchy. [independent.co.uk] Read more