Kuwait marked Kuwaiti Women’s Day on Saturday with senior officials praising the progress women have made in politics, education and the wider economy over the past two decades.
The occasion commemorates the decision made in 2005 to grant women full political rights, allowing them to vote and stand in parliamentary elections. Since then, women have expanded their presence across state institutions, business sectors and diplomatic posts in the Gulf state.
Minister of Public Works Noura Al-Mashaan described the anniversary as an important moment in the country’s modern history, saying it reflected years of efforts aimed at strengthening women’s participation in national development.
She noted that women in Kuwait had long contributed to society even before the oil era, adding that their roles became especially visible during periods of national hardship, including the 1990 Iraqi invasion, when many women took part in supporting the country under occupation.
Al-Mashaan said constitutional principles supporting equality and equal opportunities had helped create space for women to enter leadership positions in government, academia and the private sector. She also pointed to the increasing presence of women in the judiciary and diplomatic services.
Kuwaiti Women’s Day was also marked by comments from Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Minister Amthal Al-Huwailah, who said the occasion represented both a historical milestone and a reminder of the need for continued institutional support for women.
According to Al-Huwailah, women now account for around 58 percent of the national workforce, with rising participation in scientific research, technology and higher education. She added that literacy rates among women in Kuwait are among the highest in the region.
Across the Gulf, governments have increasingly promoted female participation in public life as part of broader economic diversification and development plans. Kuwait has seen women take on more senior positions in recent years, including cabinet posts and leadership roles in finance, education and entrepreneurship.
Officials said further efforts would continue to focus on equality, social stability and expanding opportunities for future generations.
