HOW HAS SAUDI ARABIAN LAW RESPECTED GENDER EQUALITY HISTORICALLY AND IN THE MODERN ERA?

Abstract

In developed and developing countries, gender inequality is a huge dilemma. Gender inequality arises from social constructs and its stereotypes. These reinforced gendered identities constrain the allowed behaviour for male and female citizens. Gender inequality is a problem that is contested for all nations, whether developing or developed countries. Only four nations in all the 135 nations globally have attained gender equality. The four nations include Cuba, Costa Rica, Norway, and Sweden. Although the remaining countries have not effectively addressed gender inequality, it is considered a very critical policy issue in Saudi Arabia. The country has significant gender gaps in educational attainment, educational opportunities, and taking part in the workforce in the country. Although the country ratified CEDAW and is expected to completely eradicate all forms of discrimination, Sharia law provisions are strictly observed in the anti-discriminatory laws. Hence, decrees aimed at enhancing female citizen’s rights in the kingdom are limited by the traditions, religious practices, and culture of the country. Fatwas interpretation of Sharia determines the acceptable practices in the Kingdom and guides the judiciary when adjudicating gender equality cases.