Women in Saudi Arabia Finally Given the Right to Vote

In Saudi Arabia women are not allowed to drive or leave their homes without covering their faces, but King Abdullah  has announced that women in his country will now be allowed to vote, to run for local office and serve on his advisory board.

The move was a surprise one by the king and  is expected to anger some of the religious conservatives. The king hope the move improve the standing of women in the country at least a little bit.

Because we refuse to marginalize women in society in all roles that comply with sharia [Islamic law], we have decided … to involve women in the Shura Council as members, starting from the next term.." -King Abdullah

You can read more about the story from the LA Times.

Womens' rights in the Middle East have always been hot-button issues but this announcement from the King could have huge implications on the future.

You can read about some womens' issues from ArabInsight.org and see just how different life is for a woman in that country. After reading articles like that it's easy to see just how much this latest announcement could affect women in Saudi Arabia.

You can also watch video about the move from ABC News.

[LA TIMES]