A Turning Point for Saudi Women: Economic Necessity and Social Change
In 2014, Saudi Arabia found itself at a crossroads. The dramatic collapse in oil prices triggered a significant economic recession, severely impacting the Kingdom's economy. Businesses shuttered their doors, and many others struggled to stay afloat. In response, the Saudi government decided to diversify and boost its economic production, recognizing that women's participation in the workforce would be a crucial element in this transformation. This essay explores how the need for economic recovery catalyzed social change, particularly in advancing women's roles in Saudi Arabia.
The increased inclusion of women in the workforce not only aims at economic growth but also significantly alters traditional gender roles and societal expectations.
Economic Necessity as a Catalyst
The Vision 2030 plan, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, emphasizes the necessity of economic diversification to reduce the Kingdom’s dependency on oil. This vision is not just about economics; it's a blueprint for societal change. Women are essential to this transformation, as their participation in the workforce will increase labor availability and production rates. However, as of 2018, only 20% of Saudi women were employed, as noted by Martin Hvidt. This low participation rate stemmed largely from traditional and religious norms that confined women to domestic roles. Additionally, the lack of public transportation and the driving ban imposed since 1979 further restricted women's mobility and, consequently, their employment opportunities.
In response to these barriers, the Saudi government has taken significant steps to facilitate women's workforce participation. Lifting the driving ban is a landmark decision that promises long-term benefits by providing women with the freedom of movement necessary to pursue employment opportunities. The government has also banned child marriage, a move that allows young girls to focus on education and career aspirations rather than premature family responsibilities. Furthermore, the introduction of gender mixing in many workplaces marks a significant cultural shift, enabling women to enter previously male-dominated fields.
The inclusion of women in the workforce is not just an economic imperative but also a social revolution. Traditionally, Saudi society has viewed women primarily as homemakers, responsible for childcare and household duties while adhering to their husbands' wishes. This perception has begun to shift, particularly as economic necessity has compelled families to seek additional income sources. The recession has laid bare the inadequacies of a single income stream, prompting many women to seek employment or even start their own businesses. This economic empowerment is gradually reshaping gender dynamics within families. Women, as breadwinners, gain greater autonomy and influence in family decision-making processes, challenging the traditional patriarchal structure.
Moreover, as women enter the workforce in greater numbers, men are increasingly required to share domestic responsibilities, including childcare and household chores. This shift not only promotes gender equality but also nurtures a more balanced family life. Salwa Al-Khateeb, an anthropologist, highlights that the discovery of oil initially marginalized women's roles in the family by making men the primary breadwinners. However, the economic downturn has inadvertently provided a platform for women to regain significance in both the economic and domestic spheres.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
Despite these progressive changes, significant challenges remain. The guardianship law, as pointed out by journalist Margaret Coker, still requires women to depend on male guardians for basic legal needs. This law is a formidable barrier to full gender equality. Nonetheless, the progress made thus far offers hope for a future where women and men enjoy equal rights and opportunities in all aspects of life. Achieving this vision will not be without its hurdles, but it remains an attainable goal as long as there is a collective commitment to reform and equality.
In conclusion, while the economic recession of 2014 posed significant challenges for Saudi Arabia, it also served as a catalyst for positive social change. The increased participation of women in the workforce is both a necessity for economic recovery and a powerful force for societal transformation. By continuing to address existing barriers and embracing gender equality, Saudi Arabia can look forward to a future where women and men contribute equally to the nation's prosperity and well-being. This journey toward equality is not only possible but essential for the Kingdom's sustainable development and social progress.
A Turning Point for Saudi Women: Economic Necessity and Social Change. (2022, Jun 29). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/women-family-and-the-discovery-of-oil-in-saudi-arabia/
