The United Nations Commission on the Status of Women unanimously decided to select the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to preside over its 69th session in 2025. This marks a significant milestone as Ambassador Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Wasil becomes the first permanent representative of the Kingdom to chair this committee since its establishment in 1946. The Commission on the Status of Women, a technical body emanating from the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, is dedicated to promoting women’s advancement globally. It annually assesses progress in the field, sets standards, and formulates policies to enhance women’s status worldwide.
Saudi Arabia’s presidency of the committee reaffirms its commitment to cooperating with the international community to promote and empower women’s rights. This aligns with the Kingdom’s significant achievements in the field, where Saudi women have received considerable attention and care from the leadership. They have been empowered and become active partners in the nation’s prosperity and development. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 specifically prioritizes and targets the full participation of women across all levels and the optimal use of their tremendous capacities.
Key reforms in Saudi Arabia have strengthened women’s rights in various aspects, including the prohibition of forced marriages and the empowerment of women in education and training. The government has implemented measures to protect women’s rights in marital, custody, and personal status issues. For example, judgments related to child custody and personal status must be compulsorily implemented, even if this requires police assistance. Additionally, women have been granted the right to file lawsuits in courts where they reside, regarding matrimonial matters, custody, alimony, and prevention of marriage.
In the realm of education and professional development, significant strides have been made to enhance women’s participation. The net enrollment rates for females in public education have seen considerable increases, and the number of females enrolled in higher education institutions is substantial, reflecting national plans aimed at preparing women to work in universities and other professional fields. Training programs for women have also been expanded, including technical colleges and continuing education programs aimed at reducing illiteracy among women.
The Kingdom’s efforts to elevate women in business and leadership roles as part of Vision 2030 have been recognized globally. The World Bank highlighted Saudi Arabia as the top reformer in advancing women’s economic participation, noting an increase in the number of Saudi women holding managerial positions. These reforms are part of a broader strategy to improve gender equality and female empowerment in the Kingdom.
