http://f24.my/youtubeFR
Live from FRANCE 24: all the news 24/7
http://f24.my/YTliveFR
In Saudi Arabia, women are considered second-class citizens. They cannot drive or travel without the permission of a male guardian: a brother, a father, a cousin or even a son. But faced with falling oil prices and the aspirations of a young generation addicted to social networks, the authorities are gradually relaxing the rules. The FRANCE 24 team reports from the kingdom.
In December 2015, amid much publicity, Saudi Arabia held historic elections for municipal councils. For the first time, women had the right to vote and run for office. Even if this is an obvious step forward, it remains symbolic since only 21 women were elected for a total of more than 2,000 seats. Since then, things have not necessarily gone well for these women in town halls where they are supposed to have the floor.
In reality, this change is mainly motivated by the Saudi authorities' need to diversify the economy, which is entirely dependent on oil revenues. Today, Saudi women are accessing areas that were previously closed to them. Some are today lawyers, pharmacists or even appointed to the head of a stock exchange or a large bank.
Another factor that explains this feminine revolution is the demographic reality of the kingdom. Currently, 70 percent of Saudis are under 30 years old. They are looking for space to breathe in a society stifled by tradition and religion. Faced with these aspirations, the authorities have decided to relax certain rules and promote sport and entertainment for women. They also ordered the notorious religious police to slightly relax their grip on society. Young people can now take some liberties with traditional outfits and customs.
For the few activists who continue to fight for true female emancipation, these changes are largely cosmetic. They say the country needs drastic measures, including ending the male guardianship system and banning women from driving. Even if these subjects seem ultra-sensitive, even certain figures close to power recognize that changes are necessary. But the road to equality for Saudi women is still long and fraught with pitfalls.
http://www.france24.com/fr/reporters
Visit our website:
http://www.france24.com
Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
http://f24.my/youtubeFR
Like us on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/FRANCE24.English
Follow us on twitter:
https://twitter.com/France24_fr
Please take the opportunity to connect and share this video with your friends and family if you find it useful.
