Free Republic

When the Kuwaiti National Assembly (parliament) met Monday, few expected the session to make history by granting women full political rights.... The decision ends Kuwait's dubious distinction as one of only two countries in the world not to allow women to take part in elections. It also opens the way for the appointment of women to Cabinet and ambassadorial positions.... Much to their disappointment, Kuwaiti women failed to persuade the administration of George Bush, the father, to press Kuwaiti leaders for reform. Obsessed with Realpolitik, the administration regarded democracy and human rights in the Middle East as desirable luxuries rather...