Guaranteeing Women Rights And Opportunity (NAPSA)—Women are making major strides in many areas of Arab life—particularly in the United Arab Emirates. The UAE Constitution states that the principles of social justice should apply to all and that women are equal with men before the law. They enjoy the samelegal status, claim to titles, access to education and right to practice professions. They are also guaranteed the same access as men to employment healthcare and family welfare facilities. Women’s associations, such as the UAE Women’s Federation, have played a major role in the attempt to reach these goals. The concept of these associations is to promote the role of women in serving their society. President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan of the UAE, states “We praise God that the role of women in society has become (more) prominent, so that they may achieve good things for our present and future generations.” The UAE sets aside certain guarantees for women, such as maternity leave and medical leave, if they must accompany a parent or child abroad for medical treatment. The UAE Women’s Federation is currently lobbying for even greater government benefits for women, including an increase in maternity leave from 45 to 90 day; and expanded legal rights for young mothers. Past changes to the Civil Service Law to allow women to serve in government have allowed many talented womento enter the Civil Service. , ok : The United Arab Emirate Constitution says the principles of social justice should apply equally to men and women. Because various aspects of women’s lives must be improved before they can actively participate in the growth of the country, the federation offers literacy help; sets up educational programs and child care services; and organizes religious and cultural activities. “From the time the federation was established in 1971, the government of the UAE has worked hard to ensure that women are provided with opportunities to play a major role in society,” said Ambassador Al-Asri Al-Dhahri, the UAE Ambassador to the United States. “The women’s federation provides help to rural areas, working on environmental projects and presenting health promotion programs.” “Nothing could delight me more than to see a woman taking up her distinctive position in society,” said President Sheikh Zayed.
