Muhammad Al-Osaimi
Okaz
The news of Amal Abdullah Al-Qubaisi’s election as president of the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates made my day. I was really happy to see a woman presiding over a parliamentary establishment in the Arab world. I am happy because our brothers in the UAE were the first in the Middle East and North Africa to appoint a woman as president of a parliament. It proves that Gulf countries recognize the important role of women in our societies, unlike some other countries.
Al-Qubaisi will open the door for the women of Gulf countries to enter the world of politics, which women have been unable to do for many years. Today, Arab women have an opportunity to be on an equal footing with men, and now men will no longer monopolize political positions. It is a step in the right direction for the UAE’s government. We will see women filling positions such as the minister of foreign affairs, interior or defense as long as the candidates are selected based on their competence, qualifications and capabilities to hold such posts.
Women in Gulf countries can feel proud of themselves after this achievement. Today, women hold positions in embassies, missions abroad, and prestigious universities. This is a great national achievement that silences those who feel that women can only be housewives and take care of children. Women can play effective roles in our society and perform difficult tasks and jobs, just like men, sometimes better than men and with more responsibility.
There is no room for lame excuses and fabricated lies about the role of women in daily life. Women in Gulf countries can contribute to national economies and development, and no one can alter this fact or destroy it, because it is obvious. Women have already proven themselves to be leaders.
