Women

The women of Bahrain live in a country that is far ahead of the Arab world in terms of freedom to work, learn, and travel. Bahraini women share full and equal voting rights and can run for election, a first in the Arabian Gulf region. Bahraini women are, likewise, free to drive and dress as they wish. The Amir’s wife, Shaikha Sabika bint Ibrahim Al-Kalifa, is an active and strong supporter of women’s rights. In 2001, she formed the “Supreme Council for Women,” a group of 14 leading figures with experience in women’s issues. The group recommends policies on matters such as education, healthcare, economic advancement, media, culture, politics and foreign relations.

King Hamad elevated women’s political rights to a priority in his proposed reforms. In 2002, women attained the right to vote and run for office in national elections. In 2004, the first female minister was appointed. Dr. Nada Haffadh became Bahrain’s Health Minister. In 2006, Haya bint Rashid Al Khalifa appointed as president of the United Nations General Assembly, becoming the first Middle Eastern women and the third woman to be the head of the body. Eighteen women ran for seats in Parliament in the November 2006 elections, including Lateefa AL Gaood who became Bahrain’s first female in the legislature.