Female Drivers in Saudi Arabia

In late September, King Salman of Saudi Arabia changed governmental policy in the country allowing women to drive legally.

The decision was greeted by many who have been campaigning for change for some time. However, the change in the law is not without its critics and some have argued that women are more dangerous on the road [than men] and one cleric stated that “women could not drive because they have a quarter of a brain” – I assume, compared to men also!

The change in law will take effect from June 2018.

The article could prove a useful as part of a discussion about how women’s rights are different to those in the UK and around the world. Further discussion could also include some of the religious, economic and political reasons for the change in the law. 

References:

• BBC News: Saudi women driving reforms: 'We did it'
• YouTube Al Jazeera English: Saudi Arabia lifts ban on women driving