Saudi Arabia unshackled: rapid societal change draws Malaysia, Indonesia parallels
- Sweeping reforms that ‘echo aspects’ of Southeast Asia’s development empower women and the young – and bewilder older conservatives
In stark contrast to the strictures of the 20th century, young Saudis can now pursue their careers of choice and enjoy entertainment venues in which men and women are allowed to mingle and form relationships – social freedoms long considered taboo.
Women’s participation in the workforce reached 36 per cent last year, nearly double the figure in 2016, as the relaxation of guardianship laws has meant women aged 21 or older no longer needed a male relative’s permission to leave home, register their marriage, or obtain a passport.
“The entry of women into the public, and the introduction of gender mixing in the big cities has really opened up the social and professional space for young Saudis,” said Kristin Smith Diwan, a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington.
“The change can be seen in the work space, in family life, and in dynamics such as dating and marriage, in ways that we can’t yet fully comprehend.”
