Saudi Arabia’s Women Empowerment Efforts Lauded at UN

New York, The Gulf Observer: In a compelling address delivered at the 68th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York, Maimoonah Al-Khalil, Secretary-General of the Saudi Family Affairs Council, spotlighted Saudi Arabia’s robust initiatives aimed at empowering women and enhancing their economic participation within the Kingdom. Al-Khalil underscored the pivotal role of women’s empowerment in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, emphasizing its significance in achieving sustainable development and prosperity objectives.

Al-Khalil lauded the Kingdom’s leadership for its unwavering commitment to fostering equal opportunities for women across all sectors of society. She highlighted the implementation of comprehensive national plans dedicated to advancing women’s roles and ensuring their full and effective engagement in economic activities. Notably, she emphasized the establishment of social support and assistance programs, reflecting a paradigm shift in directing government support towards deserving individuals.

Among the notable achievements, Al-Khalil highlighted the remarkable surge in Saudi Arabia’s social protection index, securing a consecutive second-place ranking among G20 nations. She further highlighted the Kingdom’s notable advancements in global indices, including a notable rise in the World Giving Index and the Helping a Stranger Index, signaling Saudi Arabia’s dedication to humanitarian efforts and societal well-being.

Recognizing Saudi Arabia’s strides, Al-Khalil underscored the accolades received from international institutions such as the World Bank, praising the Kingdom’s establishment of a pioneering social safety net aimed at activating and empowering all segments of society while fostering entrepreneurial and productive initiatives.

Furthermore, Al-Khalil drew attention to the devastating impact of the conflict in Gaza on women and children in Palestine, condemning humanitarian violations perpetrated by the Israeli occupation forces. She emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive ceasefire to safeguard Palestinian civilians, particularly women and children, and facilitate unimpeded humanitarian aid delivery to the Gaza Strip.

Al-Khalil’s address at the UN underscored Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment and its broader commitment to humanitarian causes, urging global recognition and solidarity in fostering a more equitable and just world.