By Dr Moez Doraid & Ghada Hatim Mudawi
As we mark the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, we are reminded that violence against women is not only a grave violation of human rights but also a barrier to women’s empowerment and progress across all spheres of life. Globally, nearly one in three women experience violence in their lifetime. In the Arab States, many women and girls face compounded risks due to conflict, displacement, and negative stereotyping, which underscores the urgent need for countries to share successful models of action.
This year’s campaign coincides with a moment of reflection and renewed commitment, as we approach the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark framework recognizing that sustainable development and women’s empowerment go hand in hand. Yet, as we reflect on decades of progress, it is clear that realizing women’s rights and achieving women’s empowerment requires more than addressing violence; it demands creating opportunities that empower women to participate fully and equally in economic, social, and political life.
Kuwait’s initiatives to strengthen women’s economic empowerment and its commitment to achieve Agenda 2030 and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals offer good practice examples to the region and beyond. In every country in the world challenges remain, and leaders must do more to address the root causes of violence and inequality that hinder women’s full participation in society. As a member of the Human Rights Council, Kuwait has a particular opportunity to highlight the fundamental importance of women’s rights and gender equality to accelerate achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Kuwait is to date the only country in the region to have prioritised Sustainable Development Goal 5: achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. The dedicated programme aligned with Kuwait’s Vision 2035 sought to address the fact that violence against women and economic exclusion are interrelated. Both are rooted in inequality and harmful norms that devalue women’s contributions and restrict their potential. The evidence is clear that women who have access to resources, decent work, and opportunities are better equipped to break cycles of abuse and advocate for their rights.
This year’s 16 Days of Activism remind us that a future free from violence is a future of opportunity. In Kuwait and the wider region, there is significant potential to leverage economic reform and innovation to advance women’s empowerment. By fostering safe workplaces, reforming discriminatory laws, and challenging outdated social norms, Kuwait is increasingly demonstrating the critical role of women in building resilient economies that sustain national development for future generations. Notably, nearly 50 companies in Kuwait have committed to the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs), reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of women’s leadership and participation in the private sector. In 2023, leading Kuwaiti companies that had signed the WEPs came together to form the Kuwait Women’s Empowerment Platform to advance women’s empowerment in the private sector and the community, in contribution to national efforts on Agenda 2030 and SDG 5.This commitment underscores Kuwait’s progress in integrating gender equality into corporate practices, further reinforcing its leadership in creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
As we amplify the voices of survivors of violence against women and commit to concrete actions, let us also seize this moment to strengthen Kuwait’s advancement of women’s empowerment and human rights. By building economic systems that work for women, and prioritizing inclusive development, the Kuwaiti economy and society can benefit tremendously. Together, we can create a future where women and girls not only live free from violence but also have the resources, opportunities, and support they need to reach their full potential—for their sake and for the prosperity of all.
Dr. Moez Doraid
UN Women Regional Director, ai, for the Arab States
Ghada Hatim Eltahir Mudawi
United Nations Resident Coordinator to the State of Kuwait
