SECRET DIVORCES (SAUDI ARABIA)

About:

• Local female lawyers suggest the measure will end what are known as secret divorces, wherein men end a marriage without telling their wives.
  
  
• Women in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia will be able to view documents related to the termination of their marriage contracts through the Ministry’s website.
  
  
• The directive would ensure women are fully aware of their marital status and can protect rights such as alimony.
  
  

Recent initiatives towards women empowerment in Saudi Arabia:

• The new step is said to be part of economic and social reforms pushed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, such as allowing women to attend football matches and work in jobs traditionally reserved for men.
  
  
• Last year, a decades-old driving ban on women was lifted in Saudi Arabia.
  
  
• However, women still remain subject to male guardianship laws. There are many things that Saudi women are unable to do without permission from a male guardian, usually a husband, father, brother or son. These things include, but are not limited to:
  • Applying for passports; Travelling abroad
    
    
  • Getting married
    
    
  • Opening a bank account; Starting certain businesses etc.