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Great leap for UAE women: 50% seats in FNC

Dubai - The directive aims to rank the UAE among the top worldwide when it comes to representation of women in parliament.

Women will occupy 50 per cent seats of the UAE's Federal National Council (FNC) in next year's elections. The President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has directed the authorities concerned to double women representation in the FNC from the current 22.5 per cent.
The directive aims to rank the UAE among the top worldwide when it comes to representation of women in parliament. It is expected to propel the UAE to the fourth position globally on a list compiled by the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

Sheikh Khalifa bin ?Zayed Al Nahyan said this will enable the UAE women to achieve in a record time what has been achieved globally in decades.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said the decision is a "great leap forward in cementing the legislative and parliamentary role of women in our nation's development".
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, said: "Woman is a partner and supporter of our journey of development. She has proven her relevance in different positions, we wish her great success."
Azza bin Sulaiman, FNC member from Dubai:

"It took us only 10 years to have a woman lead the parliament as the Speaker. If you look at history, many countries took 70 years or more to achieve that."

"50 per cent representation of Emirati women in the FNC is a golden step towards the empowerment of women in the UAE, giving them equal opportunities with men in political decision-making."

"With more women in the FNC, issues affecting women and children in the communities will be greatly presented and advocated for in the house, which will promote their status and well-being."

"The unlimited support for women will reflect positively on their performance and improve her skills and talents. This will result in the establishment of a healthy and stable society."