Prince Naif Speaks Out Against Gender Segregation

The powerful Saudi Interior Minister, Prince Naif, told an audience of reporters, intellectuals and officials on April 9th that “Segregation of men and women is not correct.” He continued to say, “Society consists of both men and women...Women have their capabilities and they have a role to play which was given to them by the Creator...Women are our mothers, our sisters, and our wives.” This is a welcome change in Prince Naif’s attitude toward women specifically and toward changes in Saudi society in general. He has been known for being a staunch opponent of power sharing, empowerment of women and religious freedom.

Prince Naif is the only man in Saudi Arabia today who can take immediate action to eliminate the sources of gender segregation and limit the power of those who enforce such destructive and unnatural policies. He serves as the head of the religious police (Mutaween) whose job is to make sure men and women don’t mingle any where in public. With the power to reign in the power and scope of the religious police, Price Naif has what amounts to direct control over the speed and efficiency at which the desegregation of Saudi society can move forward.

It's time for the Saudi people, especially women, to put Prince Naif to the test and see if he means what he says or if his recent statements are no more than another ploy to appease the international community and silence the courageous Saudi men and women who are calling for eradication of all forms of discrimination against women, religious minorities and expatriates. The Center for Democracy and Human Rights in Saudi Arabia, located in Washington, supports all Saudi democratic and non-sectarian reformers.

http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1&section=0&article=94756&d=9&m=4&y=2007