Since 2011, when King Abdullah announced the legislation, women have been patiently waiting for this freedom. 

Saudi Arabia is known for its lack of women’s rights, prohibiting them from obtaining a passport, receiving a higher education, or driving without the permission of a patriarch. Other countries have taken a stand against Saudi Arabia for its mistreatment of women.

Earlier this year, Sweden’s Foreign Minister, Margot Wallström, referred to Saudi Arabia’s views toward women as “medieval.” In a response to this statement, the Saudi government removed its ambassador in Stockholm. And it went further than that, claiming its use of Shariah law, which restricts certain freedoms for women, is a crucial part of protecting the people.

Although the country is one step closer to guaranteeing greater independence for a majority of the population, it is still far behind the rest of the world in terms of social justice.

by Camila Jones ’17